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THE  COSSACKS 


BY 

COUNT  LYOF  TOLSTOI. 


Translated  by  Mrs.  Laura  E.  Kendall. 


NEW  YORK: 

GEORGE  MUNRO, .PUBLISHER 

17  TO  27  Vandkwater  STREET. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress^  in  the  year  1888,  by 
GEORGE  MUNRO, 

in  the  Office  of  the  Librarian  of  CongresSt  Washington^  D,  C. 


Ts? 

ni 

- r^v 


V 


COUNT  LYOF  TOLSTOI’S  WOEKS 


CONTAINED  IN  THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY  (POCKET  EDITION): 


1066  My  Husband  and  I , 

1069  Polikouchka 
1071  The  Death  of  Ivan  Iliitch 
1073  Two  Generations 
1090  The  Cossacks  , 


PRICE. 

10 

10 

10 

10 

20 


777900 


THE  COSSACKS. 


CHAPTEE  I. 

Quiet  reigned  in  the  streets  of  Moscow.  The  creaking 
of  wheels  upon  the  snow  was  heard  only  at  rare  intervals. 
No  lights  shone  from  the  windows;  even  the  street-lamps 
had  been  extinguished.  The  sound  of  church-bells  was 
beginning  to  vibrate  over  the  sleeping  city,  announcing  the 
approach  of  dawn.  The  thoroughfares  were  deserted, 
though  here  and  there  one  perceived  a coachman  sleepily 
waiting  for  a belated  passenger,  or  an  old  woman  making 
her  way  to  some  church,  where  the  candles  cast  a flickering 
light  over  the  gilded  images.  The  working  classes  were 
gradually  waking  from  slumber  to  resume  their  toil  after 
the  repose  of  a long  winter^s  night. 

For  youthful  idlers  and  pleasure-seekers  it  was  still  even- 
ing, however. 

Though  forbidden  by  law,  a gleam  of  light  was  yet  shin- 
ing through  the  closed  shutters  of  a window  in  the  Cheva- 
lier Eestaurant.  A carriage,  some  sleighs,  and  a three- 
horse  post-sledge  were  standing  in  front  of  the  door.  The 
porter,  wrapped  in  his  sheep-skin  coat,  was  sheltering  him- 
self behind  a corner  of  the  house. 

Do  they  intend  to  stay  here  talking  nonsense  all 
night  wondered  a pale  and  tired  waiter  in  the  anteroom. 

It  is  always  my  luck  to  be  on  duty  at  such  times. 

The  voices  of  three  yoiing  men  at  supper  in  the  ad- 
joining room  were  distinctly  audible.  The  table  was  still 
‘strewn  with  the  remains  of  the  feast.  One  of  the  occu- 


8 


THE  COSSACKS. 


pants  of  the  room,  a small,  thin,  insignificant-looking 
young  man,  was  gazing  affectionately  at  a youth  who  was 
about  to  depart.  The  second,  a tall  young  man,  was  lying 
on  a sofa  near  a table  covered  with  empty  bottles.  The 
third,  who  was  dressed  in  a short  pelisse,  was  walking  up 
and  down  the  room,  pausing  from  time  to  time  to  take 
some  almonds  and  crush  them  in  his  large,  strong,  but 
carefully  kept  hands.  This  young  man,  whose  name  was 
Olenine,  was  smiling  gayly,  his  eyes  sparkled,  and  his 
cheeks  were  flushed.  He  was  talking  feverishly  with  ex- 
cited gestures,  but  it  was  very  evident  that  he  had  some 
difficulty  in  finding  words  to  express  the  feelings  that  filled 
his  heart. 

“ I may  surely  be  allowed  to  speak  freely,  now,^^  he  re- 
marked. I am  not  trying  to  justify  myself,  but  I should 
like  you  to  see  the  matter  as  I see  it,  and  not  as  people  in 
general  view  it.  You  think  that  I have  not  acted  altogether 
right  toward  her,  I believe, he  added,  turning  to  the  plain- 
looking little  man  who  was  gazing  at  him  so  kindly  but 
sleepily. 

Yes,  I think  you  have  done  wrong,  was  the  reply, 
though  the  speaker's  countenance  expressed  even  more 
affection  than  weariness. 

I know  your  opinion.  You  think  that  for  a man  to  be 
loved  is  quite  enough.  That  it  is  even  better  than  to  love."^^ 

Yes,  my  dear  friend,  it  is  more  than  enough,  I think. 

But  why  should  not  the  love  be  mutual?’^  asked  the 
other  after  a mementos  reflection,  in  which  he  gazed  at  his 
friend  with  something  like  pity.  Why  can  not  one  love 
at  will?  It  is  certainly  a great  misfortune  to  know  that 
one  is  beloved,  and  yet  feel  wretched  because  one  can  not 
return  the  love  one  has  inspired;  nor  is  one^s  remorse  less- 
en(id  by  the  knowledge  that  one  has  not  done  wrong  inten- 
tionally. You  seem  inclined  to  think  that  I won  the  affec- 
tion of  a certain  lady  under  false  pretenses.  l)o  not  deny 
it.  Nevertheless,  whether  you  believe  mo  or  not,  I assure 


THE  COSSACKS. 


9 


you  that  of  all  the  follies  I have  committed — and  their 
name  has  been  legion — this  is  the  only  one  for  which  I have 
no  reason  to  feel  any  remorse.  I have  never  willfully  de- 
ceived either  her  or  my  own  conscience.  I really  believed 
for  a time  that  I loved  her^  afterward  I found  that  I was 
mistaken^  that  my  feeling  for  her  was  not  love.  My  affec- 
tion for  her  had  cooled  while  hers  had  increased.  Am 
then^  to  blame  because  I could  not  love  her?  What  was  I 
to  do?^^ 

It  is  useless  to  discuss  that  question  now,  as  all  is  over 
between  you/^  said  his  friend,  lighting  a cigar  to  keep  him- 
self awake.  I will  tell  you  one  thing,  though:  that  is, 
you  have  never  loved  yet,  and  you  do  not  even  know  what 
it  is  to  love.^^ 

Never  loved!  that  is  true.  I have  never  loved;  but  I 
long  to  know  love — to  find  out  if  such  a thing  really  exists 
as  I understand  it.  My  doubts  on  the  subject  are  not  yet 
satisfied.  But  what  is  the  use  of  talking  about  it?  I have 
spoiled  my  life,  and  all  is  over.  You  are  right.  I am 
going  away  to  begin  a new  existence. 

That  you  will  spoil  afresh,  remarked  the  young  man 
reclining  on  the  sofa. 

His  friend  did  not  seem  to  hear  him. 

I am  sorry  and  at  the  same  time  glad  to  go,  though  why 
I should  be  sorry  I hardly  know,^^  mused  the  youth  who 
was  about  to  depart. 

Then  he  went  oh  talking  about  himself  without  perceiving 
that  the  subject  had  not  much  interest  for  his  companions. 
A man  is  never  so  egotistical  as  when  under  the  infiuence 
of  strong  mental  excitement.  It  seems  to  him  then  that 
no  subject  can  be  as  interesting  as  himself. 

The  driver  will  not  consent  to  wait  any  longer,  said 
a young  servant  clad  in  a sheep-skin  coat  and  heavy  woolen 
muffler,  who  entered  just  at  that  moment.  His  horses 
have  been  waiting  ever  since  midnight,  and  it  is  now  four 
o'"  clock. 


10 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Olenine  glanced  at  Vania,  and  fancied  he  saw  in  his  trav- 
eling costume — his  heavy  fur-lined  boots  and  his  stupid 
face — a summons  to  a new  existence — a life  of  privation, 
toil,  and  ceaseless  activity. 

^ ^ It  is  indeed  time,  ^ ^ he  replied.  ^ ^ Farewell,  my  friends.  ^ ^ 

He  buttoned  his  pelisse.  His  friends  urged  him  to  send 
some  drink-money  to  the  driver  of  the  post-sledge  and  ask 
him  to  wait  still  longer,  but  he  refused,  and  putting  on  his 
fur  cap  he  paused  in  the  middle  of  the  room.  His  friends 
took  leave  of  him,  embracing  him  two  or  three  times.  He 
walked  to  the  table,  poured  out  a glass  of  wine,  drained  it, 
then  taking  the  hand  of  his  insignificant-looking  friend, 
and  blushing  deeply,  he  said: 

Tell  me — I can,  I must  speak  frankly  to  you;  my 
friendship  surely  warrants  it — tell  me — did  you  love  her? 
I always  suspected  it — Yes?^^ 

Yes,^^  replied  the  small  young  man,  smiling  gently. 

Then  perhaps — 

I have  orders  to  put  out  the  lights,  sir,^^  said  the 
waiter,  who  could  not  understand  why  these  young  men 
were  saying  the  same  thing  over  and  over  again.  To 
whom  shall  I give  the  bill — to  you,  sir?^^  he  added,  turn- 
ing to  the  tall  young  man,  for  he  knew  in  advance  to  whom 
he  was  to  deliver  it. 

Yes.  How  much  is  to  pay?^^ 

Twenty-six  roubles. 

The  tall  young  man  refiected  a moment,  but  made  no 
reply,  and  put  the  bill  in  his  pocket.  The  others  were  still 
talking. 

Once  more  farewell.  You  are  truly  a brave  fellow, 
said  the  little  man,  with  a sad  smile. 

''I'he  eyes  of  both  young  men  were  moist.  They  all 
walked  down-stairs.  The  traveler  turned  to  the  tall  young 
man  and  said,  blushing  a little: 

By  the  way,  will  you  have  tlie  goodness  to  settle  my 
account  with  Chevalier  and  send  it  to  me?^^ 


THE  COSSACKS.  11 

Yes,  ycs/^  replied  the  other,  drawing  on  his  gloves; 
then  in  an  entirely  different  tone  he  added:  How  I envy 
you!^^ 

Come  on,  then,^^  said  Olenine,  moving  along  in  the 
sledge  so  as  to  make  room  for  his  friend,  who  evinced  no 
desire  to  accept  the  invitation,  however. 

Well,  I must  be  said  the  traveler,  wrapping  him- 
self in  a huge  cloak.  His  voice  trembled,  however. 

Farewell,  Mitia,^^  said  his  tall  friend.  God  grant 
you—’' 

He  paused.  He  was  chiefly  anxious  for  his  friend  to  get 
away  as  soon  as  possible,  so  he  did  not  finish  the  sentence. 

There  was  a moment ^s  silence;  then  some  one  again 
cried: 

Farewell  and  the  driver  whipped  up  his  horses. 

Elizar,  my  carriage,  cried  one  of  those  who  remained. 

The  coachmen  jerked  their  reins,  and  the  wheels  creaked 
noisily  upon  the  snow. 

“ What  a good  fellow  Olenine  is!^^  said  one  of  the  young 
men;  but  what  a strange  idea  to  go  to  the  Caucasus,  and 
to  go  in  such  a capacity.  I wouldnT  do  it  for  anything* 
Will  you  dine  at  the  club  to-morrow?^^ 

Certainly.-’^ 

And  the  young  men  separated. 

The  traveler  felt  uncomfortably  warm,  so  seating  himself 
in  the  bottom  of  the  sledge,  he  unbuttoned  his  fur  coat. 
The  three  horses  bore  him  swiftly  from  street  to  street, 
passing  houses  he  had  never  seen,  in  the  darkness.  Olen- 
ine said  to  himself  that  only  those  who  were  departing  for- 
ever would  pass  through  such  streets.  Everything  around 
him  was  gloomy,  silent,  and  lugubrious;  and  his  soul  was 
filled  with  tender  recollections,  emotions  and  regrets. 


12 


THE  COSSACKS, 


CHAPTER  IL 

What  kind  hearts  they  have!  how  I love  them!^^  he 
repeated  again  and  again,  and  his  tgars  were  ready  to  flow. 
But  why?  And  whom  did  he  love  so  devotedly?  He  would 
have  found  it  difficult  to  say.  He  glanced  mechanically  at 
a house  he  was  passing,  and  wondered  that  it  was  so  badly 
constructed;  then  he  asked  himself  why  Vania  and  the 
driver,  who  were  utter  strangers  to  him,  should  be  so  near 
him  and  obliged  to  accompany  him;  then  he  repeated 
again:  ^^How  kind  they  were!  how  I love  them!^^  Once 
he  even  said  to  himself:  ^^It  is  truly  wonderful !^^  then 
recollecting  himself  he  wondered  if  he  were  not  drunk. 
He  had  really  taken  two  bottles  of  wine;  but  his  state  of 
mind  was  not  due  to  the  wine  alone.  He  was  thinking  of 
the  affectionate  words  that  had  been  said  to  him  at  the  mo- 
ment of  departure — of  the  warm  pressure  of  his  hand,  of 
the  affectionate  looks,  and  of  the  tone  in  which  that  Fare- 
well, Mitia!^^  had  been  uttered.  He  recollected,  too,  his 
own  confession,  and  the  deep  interest  in  him  which  rela- 
tives and  even  casual  acquaintances  had  manifested  at  the 
time  of  his  departure,  and  how  cordially  they  had  seemed 
to  forgive  all  offenses  as  on  the  eve  of  one^s  first  commun- 
ion or  of  death. 

It  may  be  that  I shall  never  return, he  thought;  and 
it  seemed  to  him  that  his  heart  too  was  filled  with  a pro- 
found affection  and  regret  for  some  one. 

It  was  not  his  affection  for  his  comrades,  however,  that 
had  so  softened  his  heart  as  to  extort  these  incoherent 
words  from  him,  nor  a love  for  any  woman,  for  he  had 
never  loved;  no,  it  was  a love  of  self,  or  rather  of  all  that 
he  considered  best  and  noblest  in  himself,  that  made  liim 
weep  and  murmur  these  rambling  words. 


THE  COSSACK^. 


13 


Olenine  had  never  completed  any  college  course^  nor  had 
he  ever  filled  any  official  position,  though  registered  for 
awhile  in  one  of  the  government  departments.  He  had 
spent  the  greater  part  of  his  fortune;  and  though  he  was 
now  twenty-four  years  of  age,  he  had  not  yet  decided  upon 
any  career  or  turned  his  attention  to  any  business.  He  was 
merely  what  is  known  in  Moscow  as  a young  society  man. 
At  eighteen  he  had  enjoyed  all  the  freedom  that  was  al- 
lowed in  Eussia  twenty  years  ago  to  youthful  members  of 
wealthy  families  who  were  left  orphans  at  an  early  age. 
He  was  subjected  to  no  mental  or  moral  restraint  whatever, 
but  was  allowed  to  think  and  act  precisely  as  he  pleased. 
He  was  no  philosopher,  nor  was  he  a bore  or  easily  bored; 
on  the  contrary,  he  was  an  easy  victim  to  influences  of  every 
kind.  He  had  decided  that  love  was  an  empty  word; 
nevertheless  he  trembled  at  the  sight  of  a young  and  hand- 
some woman. 

He  pretended  to  despise  rank  and  position,  yet  he  experi- 
enced no  little  satisfaction  when  Prince  Serge  approached 
him  during  a ball,  and  addressed  a few  friendly  words  to 
him.  Still  he « did  not  yield  to  such  influences  to  such  an 
extent  as  to  become  a slave;  on  the  contrary,  whenever  he 
perceived  a difficulty  he  lost  no  time  in  overcoming  the  ob- 
stacle and  recovering  his  liberty,  and  was  ever  asking  him- 
self how  he  could  best  utilize  the  forces  of  his  youthful 
manhood — not  the  power  of  intellect,  heart,  or  of  moral  train- 
ing, but  the  irresistible  enthusiasm  which  youth  alone  can 
impart  to  a man,  and  which  makes  him  master  of  the  uni- 
verse in  his  own  estimation.  There  are  men  who  are  igno- 
rant of  this  irresistible  power — men  who  accustom  them- 
selves to  tljp  curb  from  their  entrance  into  life  to  their 
death,  and  toil  on  honestly  and  placidly  until  death;  but 
Olenine  was  profoundly  conscious  of  the  possession  of  this 
potent  auxiliary  which  concentrates  all  our  faculties  upon  a 
single  desire — to  will  and  to  act — and  makes  one  throw 
one^s  self  head  first  into  an  abyss  without  even  knowing 


14 


THE  COSSACKS. 


why.  He  rejoiced  and  gloried  in  this  conscious  pow'er, 
these  strivings  after  the  unknown.  Up  to  this  time  he  had 
loved  only  self;  he  believed  himself  capable  of  the  noblest 
deeds,  and  had  not  yet  had  time  to  become  undeceived. 
Though  aware  of  his  faults,  he  persuaded  himself  that  they 
were  merely  the  result  of  circumstances;  that  his  inten- 
tions had  always  been  good,  and  that  he  was  about  to  begin 
a new  life  in  which  he  would  have  no  cause  for  repentance, 
and  surely  find  happiness. 

When  one  starts  upon  a long  journey  one  retains  for  sev- 
eral hours  a vivid  recollection  of  the  place  one  has  just  left; 
then  one  wakes  with  new  impressions.  One  thinks  only  of 
one^s  destination,  and  begins  to  build  castles  in  the  air 
anew.  This  was  Olenine^s  experience.  After  leaving  the 
city  he  cast  his  eyes  over  the  snow-clad  fields  and  rejoiced 
at  the  thought  of  being  alone  in  this  wilderness,  then  he 
wrapped  himself  more  closely  in  his  pelisse  and  soon  fell 
asleep. 

It  was  daylight  when  he  reached  the  third  station.  Here 
he  assisted  Vania  in  transferring  his  portmanteau  and 
trunks  to  another  sledge,  where  he  enthroned  himself  in 
the  midst  of  his  possessions,  content  to  know  that  every- 
thing was  safe  and  in  its  proper  place.  This  feeling  of  sat- 
isfaction and  the  thought  of  the  long  journey  before  him 
made  his  heart  feather-light. 

He  spent  most  of  the  day  in  calculating  the  distance  he 
must  travel  before  reaching  the  next  station — the  next  city, 
the  place  where  he  was  to  stop  for  dinner,  for  tea  in  the 
evening,  and  the  distance  he  had  already  traveled.  He 
went  over  his  debts,  too,  and  calculated  how  many  of  them 
he  could  pay,  and  how  much  money  he  would  have  left 
afterward,  and  what  part  of  his  income  he  could  spend 
each  month.  After  he  had  taken  tea  that  evening  he  said 
to  himself  that  he  would  still  have  seven  elevenths  of  the 
distance  to  travel  after  leaving  Stavropol,  that  he  would 
liave  to  economize  closely  for  seven  months  to  pay  all  his 


THE  COSSACKS. 


15 


debts,  and  that  they  would  swallow  up  about  one  eighth  of 
his  fortune.  After  that  he  laid  down  in  the  bottom  of  the 
sledge  and  was  soon  sound  asleep. 

The  voice  of  Vania  and  the  sudden  pausing  of  the  sledge 
aroused  him.  Half  asleep,  he  tumbled  into  another  sledge 
and  continued  his  journey. 

The  following  day  there  were  more  stations  and  more 
tea,  the  same  panting  of  swiftly  moving  horses  and  short 
conversations  with  Vania;  the  same  vague  dreams  and  the 
profound  slumber  of  youth  during  the  night. 


CHAPTER  HI. 

Oh  reaching  the  Cossack  territory  on  the  Don,  Olenine 
exchanged  his  sledge  for  a carriage,  and  after  passing 
Stavropol  the  air  became  so  mild  that  he  laid  aside  his 
pelisse.  It  was  springtime  in  this  region— an  unexpected 
springtime  that  delighted  the  young  man.  He  no  longer 
traveled  at  night,  nor  was  he  allowed  to  leave  the  stations 
after  dark — that  would  be  dangerous.  Vania  was  evident- 
ly uneasy,  and  kept  his  gun  loaded.  Olenine  felt  more  and 
more  pleased.  At  one  of  the  places  where  he  stopped  to 
change  horses  there  was  a great  deal  of  talk  about  a fright- 
ful murder  that  had  been  committed  a short  time  before. 
The  men  they  met  on  the  road  were  all  armed. 

This  is  the  beginning  of  a new  life,-"^  Olenine  said  to 
himself;  and  he  waited  impatiently  for  a glimpse  of  the 
snow-topped  mountains  of  which  he  had  heard  so  much. 
One  evening  the  driver  pointed  with  his  whip  to  a mount- 
ain-chain dimly  visible  above  the  clouds.  Olenine  strained 
his  eyes  to  obtain  a better  view  of  them,  but  they  were 
almost  hidden  by  the  clouds.  He  saw  something  vague  and 
gray  and  wavy,  but  not  at  all  beautiful,  and  he  said  to  him- 
self rather  petulently  that  mountains  and  clouds  differed 
but  little  in  appearance,  and  that  their  pretended  beauty  was 


16 


THE  COSSACKS. 


all  a humbugs  like  the  music  of  Bach  and  love^  and  he 
ceased  to  think  of  them. 

An  unusual  coolness  in  the  air  roused  him  the  next 
morning  at  dawn^  and  he  glanced  carelessly  around  him. 
The  morning  was  beautiful  and  serene,  and  he  suddenly 
perceived,  apparently  only  about  twenty  miles  from  him, 
enormous  masses  of  dazzling  whiteness  outlined  against  the 
distant  sky.  When  he  realized  how  far  these  imposing 
heights  were  from  him  he  felt  their  incomparable  beauty, 
and  seized  with  a secret  terror,  he  almost  believed  himself 
the  victim  of  a dream.  Indeed,  he  shook  himself  roughly 
to  satisfy  himself  that  he  was  really  awake.  Yes,  the 
mountains  were  really  and  truly  there  before  him. 

What  is  that?  What  do  I see?^^  he  exclaimed. 

The  mountains,*^'  replied  the  driver  in  an  indifferent 
tone. 

I have  been  admiring  them  a long  time,^^  said  Vania. 

How  beautiful  they  are!’^ 

The  chain  appeared  to  flee  toward  the  horizon  before  the 
rapid  approach  of  the  troiha^  and  the  snow-clad  peaks  as- 
sumed a lovely  roseate  hue  beneath  the  rays  of  the  rising 
sun.  Profoundly  impressed  with  their  beauty,  Olenine^s 
recollections  of  the  past,  his  misdemeanors,  his  repentance, 
and  his  mad  illusions,  all  faded  away  in  the  majestic  pres- 
ence of  these  lofty  peaks. 

It  is  only  now  that  you  are  really  beginning  to  live,^^  a 
mysterious  voice  whispered  in  his  ear.  The  winding  Terek, 
now  visible  in  the  distance,  the  stanitsas  and  the  Cossacks 
he  met,  all  assumed  an  almost  sacred  aspect  in  his  eyes. 
He  looked  at  the  sky,  but  could  think  only  of  the  mount- 
ains; he  looked  at  Vania,  and  could  think  only  of  the 
mountains — always  of  the  mountains. 

'^f.Vo  Cossacks  passed  on  horseback  with  guns  on  their 
shoulders;  the  blue  smoke  from  two  cottages  was  curling 
up  in  tlie  air  beyond  the  Terek;  the  rishig  sun  crimsoned 
the  tall  reeds  that  bordered  the  river;  several  young  and 


THE  COSSACKS. 


17 


handsome  women  suddenly  appeared  on  the  side  of  the 
road^  and  in  the  distance  some  Abreks  could  be  distinctly 
seen  riding  swiftly  over  the  plain.  * But  Olenine  did  not 
fear  them.  He  was  young,  strong,  well-armed,  and  he  was 
dreaming  of  the  mountains — always  of  the  mountains. 


OHAPTEE  IV. 

That  portion  of  the  valley  of  the  Terek  inhabited  by  the 
Grebenskoy  Cossacks  is  .about  eighty  verstes  in  extent,  and 
of  the  same  general  character.  The  Terek  is  a rapid  and 
turbid  river;  but  here  it  becomes  more  calm,  and  its  bed  is 
considerably  wider.  The  right  bank  of  the  stream  is  low 
'and  sandy;  the  left  rugged  and  precipitous,  and  shaded 
with  venerable  oaks  and  plane-trees.  On  the  right  bank 
are  the  villages  of  the  more  friendly  though  still  rather  dis- 
satisfied tribes,  and  on  the  left,  about  half  a mile  from  the 
river,  and  about  five  or  six  miles  apart,  are  the  post  sta- 
tions. In  former  years  these  stations  were  on  the  very 
bank  of  the  stream,  but  the  river,  which  moved  further 
and  further  northward  with  each  succeeding  year,  has  un- 
dermined them,  and  there  now  remain  only  a few  over- 
grown gardens,  in  which  fruit-trees  are  closely  woven 
together  by  a thick  network  of  brambles  and  wild  vines. 
No  one  lives  there  now;  the  sandy  soil  bears  the  tracks  of 
only  the  deer,  wolves,  and  hares  that  have  taken  up  their 
abode  there. 

A road  has  been  cut  straight  through  the  forest  from 
station  to  station.  Along  this  road  are  outposts  garrisoned 
by  Cossacks.  A narrow  strip  of  fertile  and'densely  wooded 
land  constitutes  the  domain  of  the  Cossacks.  North  of 
this  begin  the  sandy  plains  of  the  Nogai,  which  are  finally 
lost  in  the  Turkoman,  Astrakhan,  and  Khirgiz  steppes. 
South  of  the  river  are  the  Great  Tchetchnia  and  Black 

* Circassians  on  hostile  terms  with  Russia. 


18 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Mountains,  and  beyond  them,"  in  the  far  off  horizon,  a snowy 
chain  which  no  one  has  yet  ventured  to  explore.  This  belt 
of  fertile  and  well-wooded  land  has  been  peopled  from  time 
immemorial  by  a handsome  and  warlike  race  known  as  the 
Grebenskoy  Cossacks,  or  Cossacks  of  the  mountain-tops. 

Centuries  ago  their  ancestors  left  Kussia  and  settled 
among  the  Tchetchna  Mountains.  Here  they  intermar- 
ried with  the  Circassians,  and  gradually  adopted  their  habits 
and  customs,  though  they  jireserved  their  mother  tongue 
and  their  religious  faith  unsullied.  Tradition  claims  that 
Ivan  the  Terrible  once  visited  thi^  region  and  gave  them 
the  land  upon  this  side  of  the  river  on  condition  that  they 
would  remain  on  friendly  terms  with  Russia,  promising 
them,  in  return,  entire  liberty  of  action  and  conscience. 
The  Cossacks  even  now  consider  themselves  closely  related 
to  the  Circassians;  and  a love  of  liberty,  of  war  and  of 
rapine  are  their  chief  characteristics.  The  power  of  Rus- 
sia is  felt  only  in  tampering  with  their  elections,  stationing 
troops  in  their  midst,  and  forbidding  the  use  of  bells  in  their 
churches. 

The  Cossack  in  his  secret  heart  hates  the  bandit  who  has 
killed  his  brother  much  less  savagely  than  he  hates  the 
soldier  who  has  been  sent  to  protect  his  village.  He  re- 
spects his  enemy,  the  mountaineer,  and  despises  the  soldier, 
whom  he  considers  an  intruder.  The  Russian  peasant  is  a 
savage  and  despicable  creature  in  the  eyes  of  the  Cossack. 
To  him  true  elegance  in  dress  consists  in  a close  imitation 
of  the  Circassians.  The  weapons  he  prizes  most  are  pro- 
cured from  them;  his  best  horses  are  bought  or  stolen  from 
them;  still  this  httle  Christian  tribe,  located  in  an  isolated 
corner  of  the  globe,  and  surrounded  by  half-savage  Mus- 
sulmcn,  has  a most  exalted  idea  of  its  own  importance,  and 
heartily  despises  all  the  rest  of  mankind. 

'^ITie  Cossack  s])ends  most  of  his  time  at  the  outposts  or 
in  liunting  and  lisliing  excursions.  He  very  rarely  works 
at  liome;  when  he  is  there  he  usually  spends  his  time  in 


THE  COSSACKS. 


19 


drinking.  The  Cossacks  manufacture  their  own  wine,  and 
drunkenness  is  not  considered  a vice,  but  a custom  that 
must  be  strictly  observed. 

The  Cossack  regards  woman  as  the  source  of  his  prosper- 
ity. A young  girl  may  be  idle  and  enjoy  herself,  but  a 
married  woman  must  work  as  long  as  she  lives,  and  be  as 
submissive  and  obedient  as  the  women  of  the  Orient. 
Under  this  severe  regime  the  Cossack  woman,  though  ap- 
parently an  inferior,  really  has  even  more  influence  and 
authority  in  the  household  than  the  women  of  the  Occi- 
dent. Though  the  Cossack  may  consider  it  beneath  his 
dignity  to  talk  familiarly  with  his  wife  in  the  presence  of 
strangers,  he  recognizes  her  supremacy  when  alone  with 
her,  and  realizes  that  she  supports  the  household  by  her 
exertions.  Though  he  considers  work  humiliating,  and 
leaves  it  to  his  hireling  or  his  female  slave,  he  vaguely 
realizes  that  he  owes  his  comfort  and  prosperity  to  his  wife, 
and  that  she  has  the  power  to  deprive  him  of  it. 

The  Cossack  woman,  in  spite  of  her  onerous  burden  of 
toil  and  anxiety,  or  possibly  by  reason  of  it,  acquires  re- 
markable physical  strength  and  a vast  amount  of  good 
sense  and  decision  of  character.  She  is  stronger,  more 
clever,  and  much  handsomer  than  the  men.  Her  beauty 
is  a striking  union  of  the  purest  Circassian  type  of  face 
with  the  more  powerful  physique  of  our  northern  women. 
She  wears  the  Circassian  costume — a Tartar  shirt,  embroid- 
ered jacket,  and  full  drawers,  but  she  also  wears  a handker-^ 
chief  tied  around  her  head  in  the  Eussian  style.  Women, 
and  especially  young  girls,  are  allowed  the  greatest  freedom 
in  their  relations  with  men,  and  an  elegance  of  attire  and 
the  most  exquisite  neatness  in  their  home  life  are  necessi- 
ties of  existence  with  them. 

Novomlinska  is  considered  the  most  important  station  in 
the  territory  of  the  Grebna  Cossacks.  Here  the  manners 
and  customs  of  the  ancient  Cossacks  are  carefully  pre- 


20 


THE  COSSACKS. 


served;  and  the  women  of  this  station  have  always  been  re- 
markable for  their  beauty. 

The  Oossack^s  principal  means  of  livelifiood  are  his  vine- 
yards^ orchards^  fields  of  watermelons,  millet  and  maize, 
his  hunting  and  fishing  expeditions  and  the  booty  gained  in 
war. 

Novomlinska  is  separated  from  the  Terek  by  a dense  for- 
est about  three  miles  wide.  On  one  side  of  the  road  lead- 
ing to  the  station  is  the  river,  on  the  other  orchards  and 
vineyards,  and  beyond  them  the  Nogai  steppes.  In  front 
of  the  station  is  a tall  stone  porte-cochere  covered  with  a 
thatched  roof.  Near  it,  mounted  on  a wooden  carriage,  is 
an  antiquated  cannon  upon  which  the  rust  of  a century  has 
gathered.  Sometimes  a Cossack  armed  with  saber  and  gun 
is  on  guard  at  the  gate,  and  sometimes  not;  sometimes  he 
salutes  a passing  officer,  and  sometimes  he  does  not. 

A strip  of  board  affixed  to  the  gate  gives  us  this  informa- 
tion: 

Houses,  266.  Population — males,  897;  females,  1,013. 

The  houses  are  all  built  upon  piles  four  or  five  feet  above 
the  ground.  The  roofs  are  high  and  carefully  covered  with 
reeds.  All  are  neat  and  in  excellent  repair.  They  are  not 
crowded  together,  but  picturesquely  grouped  on  either  side 
of  the  wide  street.  The  majority  have  large  windows, 
shaded  by  luxuriant  vines  and  trees  of  all  kinds.  The  pub- 
lic square  in  the  center  of  the  village  is  adorned  by  three 
shops,  well  stocked  with  calicoes,  sunflower  seed,  ginger- 
bread, and  other  dainties. 

The  house  of  the  colonel  is  surrounded  by  a high  wall. 
It  is  larger  than  the  others,  and  boasts  of  double  windows. 

There  are  very  few  persons  visible  in  the  street  in  the 
summer  time.  The  young  Cossacks  are  at  the  outposts  or 
in  the  country.  The  old  men  are  hunting  or  fishing,  or 
assisting  their  wives  in  their  gardens  or  vineyards.  Only 
the  sick  or  the  very  young  remain  at  home. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


21 


CHAPTEE  V. 

It  was  one  of  those  evenings  that  are  seen  only  in  the 
Caucasus.  The  sun  had  disappeared  behind  the  mount- 
ains; but  it  was  still  light.  The  air  was  clear,  calm,  and 
sonorous,  and  the  snow-clad  mountains  stood  out  in  bold 
relief  against  the  rich  crimson  of  the  western  sky.  The 
river,  the  road,  and  the  steppes,  all  wore  a lonely  and  de- 
serted air.  If  a horseman  occasionally  appeared  in  sight 
returning  from  the  outpost,  those  who  saw  him  anxiously 
asked  themselves  if  he  was  not  an  enemy.  All  the  inhab- 
itants of  the  village  were  slowly  making  their  way  home- 
ward. The  women,  who  had  been  tying  up  vines  all  day, 
now  turned  their  steps  village  ward;  the  gardens  were  fast 
becoming  deserted.  Young  girls  with  long  switches  in 
their  hands  ran  merrily  out  to  meet  the  cattle  that  were 
coming  leisurely  toward  the  station  enveloped  in  a thick 
cloud  of  dust.  Gay  laughter  and  merry  salhes  mingled 
with  the  lowing  of  the  kine.  A Cossack  on  horseback  taps 
at  a cottage  window  without  alighting.  The  beautiful  face 
of  a young  woman  appears,  and  a few  tender  words  are  ut- 
tered in  a low  tone. 

A Tartar  laborer,  who  has  just  brought  a load  of  rushes 
from  the  steppes,  drives  his  cart  into  his  employer’s  court- 
yard and  begins  a loud-voiced  conversation  with  his  master 
in  his  native  tongue. 

In  the  middle  of  the  street  is  a large  pool,  which  one  can 
avoid  only  by  keeping  close  to  the  fences  on  either  side. 
A bare-footed  Cossack  girl,  with  a bundle  of  fagots  on  her 
back,  wades  through  it  with  skirts  uplifted.  A Cossack 
horseman,  who  is  just  returning,  laughingly  cries  out  to 
her:  Eaise  them  higher,  you  wench!”  and  levels  his  gun 

at  her.  She  drops  her  skirts,  throws  down  her  burden^ 


THE  COSSACKS. 


and  runs  away.  An  old  Cossack,  returning  from  fishing, 
with  his  fish  still  gasping  on  a string,  crawls  through  a 
gap  in  a neighbor's  hedge,  scratching  himself  sadly.  An 
old  woman  passes,  dragging  a dry  branch  after  her;  the 
sound  of  wood-chopping  is  heard  on  every  side.  Chil- 
dren shout  noisily  as  they  toss  their  balls;  the  smoke  is 
pouring  from  every  chimney;  in  every  cottage  preparations 
for  the  evening  repast  are  going  on. 

Oulita,  the  wife  of  the  cornet,  and  likewise  the  school- 
master, is  standing  in  the  door- way  of  her  cottage,  like  the 
other  women,  waiting  for  the  cattle,  which  her  daughter 
Marianka  is  driving  home.  She  had  not  had  time  to  open 
the  gate  when  an  enormous  buffalo-cow,  driven  nearly 
frantic  by  a crowd  of  gnats,  plunges  against  the  gate, 
breaking  it  down.  She  is  followed  by  several  cows,  whose 
large  eyes  turn  tranquilly  toward  their  mistress. 

The  lovely  Marianka  follows  them,  replaces  the  gate, 
throws  away  her  switch,  and  runs  with  all  the  swiftness  of 
her  light  feet  to  drive  the  cattle  to  their  proper  places. 

Take  off  your  shoes,  you  deviTs  imp!  You  are  ruin- 
ing them1^^  cries  her  mother. 

Without  taking  the  slightest  offense  at  this  insulting 
epithet,  which  she  seems  to  regard  as  a term  of  endearment, 
Marianka  goes  cheerfully  on  with  her  work.  Upon  her 
head  is  a handkerchief  which  partially  conceals  her  face, 
and  she  is  clad  in  a scant  pink  slip  and  a blue  jacket.  She 
disappears  from  sight  in  the  barn-yard,  but  you  can  hear 
her  trying  to  coax  the  buffalo-cow  into  good  humor. 

Come,  come,  stand  still  now,  my  dear,^^  she  says,  ten- 
derly. 

Soon  the  girl  and  her  mother  return  to  the  house  with 
the  evening’s  milking,  and  Marianka  replenishes  the  fire, 
while  her  mother  goes  back  to  her  place  in  the  door- way. 
It  is  nearly  dark  now.  '^The  air  is  filled  with  the  smell  of 
vegetables,  cattle  and  smoke.  The  lowing  of  cattle  in  the 


THE  COSSACKS.  23 

court-yard  is  mingled  with  the  voices  of  women  and  chil- 
dren. A masculine  voice  is  rarely  heard  on  a week-day. 

A tall  and  robust  woman  crosses  the  street  to  ask  Mother 
Oulita  for  a brand  to  light  her  fire. 

Have  you  finished  your  work  already  she  asks. 

Yes.  You  want  a lights  do  you?  Come  in  and  help 
yourself. 

The  visitor  seats  herself  with  the  air  of  one  who  feels  in- 
clined to  chat  awhile. 

So  your  husband  is  still  in  school she  asks. 

Yes,  he  writes  that  he  will  not  be  home  until  the  holi- 
days. 

^^He^s  a sensible  man,  your  husband  is!  As  for  my 
Lukashka,  he^s  at  the  outpost,  and  they  won^t  let  him 
come  home  for  some  time. 

The  school-teacher^s  wife  was  perfectly  well  aware  of  this 
fact,  but  the  new-comer  wished  to  speak  of  her  son  who 
had  just  entered  the  service,  and  whom  she  wished  to 
marry  to  Marianka. 

I sent  him  some  shirts  the  other  day  by  Tomoushkin, 
and  he  tells  me  my  son  is  a great  favorite  with  the  officers. 
He  tells  me,  too,  that  they  are  on  the  track  of  some  Abreks 
again,  and  that  Lukas  seems  to  be  both  contented  and 
ha23py.  He  is  a good  boy,  and  if  I could  see  him  well  mar- 
ried I could  die  happy. 

I donT  see  why  you  should  have  any  difficulty  about 
that.  There  are  plenty  of  girls  here  at  the  station. 

Yes,  but  your  Marianka  is  the  girl  for  me.^^ 

Oulita  is  perfectly  well  aware  of  her  visitor's  wishes,  but 
being  an  officer's  wife,  and  quite  well  off,  while  Lukas  is 
poor  and  has  no  father,  she  is  not  particularly  anxious  for 
the  match.  In  the  second  place,  she  is  in  no  hurry  to  part 
with  her  daughter,  and  thirdly,  propriety  demands  that  she 
should  maintain  an  air  of  profound  indifference. 

Yes,  I think  she  will  be  as  good  as  any  of  them  when 


24 


THE  COSSACKS. 


she  gets  a little  older/ ^ she  responds,  in  a rather  reserved 
manner. 

After  we  finish  gardening  I am  coming  with  some  of 
my  friends  to  pay  my  respects  to  Ilea  Vassilitch,  and  make 
a formal  demand  for  your  daughter's  hand. 

And  why  to  him,  I should  like  to  know,^^  replied  the 
cornet^s  wife,  haughtily.  It  is  to  me  you  must  apply, 
but  all  in  good  time.^^ 

The  visitor  saw  that  it  would  not  be  advisable  to  say  any 
more  just  then,  so  she  rose  to  go.  As  she  stepped  out  of 
doors  she  met  Marianka,  who  bowed  politely  as  she  passed. 

As  handsome  as  a queen,  and  a good  worker,^'’  thought 
the  old  woman.  It  is  quite  time  for  her  to  get  married, 
and  marry  my  Lukashka  she  must  and  shall. 

Oulita  sat  in  the  door- way  deeply  absorbed  in  thought, 
until  her  daughter's  voice  aroused  her  from  her  reverie. 


CHAPTEE  VI. 

The  young  Cossack  Lukashka,  of  whom  the  two  old 
women  had  been  talking,  was  standing  guard  that  very 
afternoon  on  the  watch-tower  at  Mjni  Protolsk,  on  the 
banks  of  the  Terek.  An  attack  from  some  Abreks  was 
hourly  expected,  that  tribe  usually  choosing  the  month  of 
May  for  their  invasions,  the  water  then  being  so  low  that 
the  river  could  be  forded  without  much  difficulty,  and  the 
forest  more  easily  passable  than  later  in  the  season.  The 
Cossacks  had  received  a communication  from  the  colonel  a 
short  time  before,  bidding  them  be  on  the  alert,  as  spies 
had  informed  him  that  a party  was  preparing  to  cross  the 
Terek.  There  were  no  signs  of  any  unusual  watchfulness 
at  the  post,  however.  The  Cossacks  were  making  them- 
selves  as  comfortable  as  possible;  the  horses  were  not  sad- 
dled, and  the  men  had  laid  aside  their  weapons,  and  were 
devoting  their  attention  to  liunting,  fishing  and  drinking. 
Only  the  Cossack  on  guard  was  armed,  and  his  saddled 


THE  COSSACKS. 


25 


horse  was  grazing  on  the  edge  of  the  wood.  The  officer  of 
the  day,  a tall,  angular  man,  with  remarkably  small  hands, 
was  sitting  on  the  terrace  in  front  of  the  guard-house,  with 
his  head  resting  on  his  hands,  and  an  expression  of  intense 
ennui  depicted  on  his  countenance. 

An  old  Cossack  with  a long,  gray  beard,  and  no  cloth- 
ing, save  a shirt  confined  at  the  waist  by  a leather  belt,  was 
lying  stretched  out  upon  the  river-bank,  lazily  watching 
the  turbulent  waters.  Several  others,  who  had  stripped 
off  nearly  all  their  garments  on  account  of  the  heat,  were 
washing  their  linen  in  the  stream,  or  lying  on  the  warm 
sand  singing  in  subdued  tones.  Another  Cossack,  with  a 
pale,  thin  face,  was  lying  dead  drunk  near  the  guard- 
house, which  had  shaded  him  for  a couple  of  hours  from 
the  sun  that  was  now  shining  full  in  his  face. 

Lukashka  was  a tall,  handsome  fellow,  about  twenty 
years  of  age,  and  his  form,  though  angular,  like  that  of 
most  very  young  men,  indicated  great  physical  strength 
and  endurance.  Though  he  had  seen  but  little  military 
service,  the  expression  of  his  face  and  the  calmness  of  his 
demeanor  showed  that  he  was  fully  sensible  of  his  dignity 
as  a Cossack  and  a soldier.  His  caftan  was  rather  ragged, 
and  his  cap  worn  on  the  nape  of  his  neck,  after  the  Cir- 
cassian fashion;  but  his  shabby  attire  was  worn  in  the  dash- 
ing style  of  the  Circassian  bravo.  A true  Circassian  must 
have  the  finest  of  weapons;  but  it  does  not  matter  in  the 
least  how  shabby  and  ragged  his  uniform  is,  or  how  care- 
lessly it  is  thrown  on.  Lukashka  ^s  features  were  by  no 
means  regular,  but  he  attracted  one^s  attention  at  the  first 
glance  by  his  powerful  frame,  his  intelligent  air,  and  his 
heavy  black  eyebrows,  and  one  involuntarily  exclaimed: 

What  a handsome  fellow 

The  streets  are  full  of  women,  nothing  but  women, 
he  said,  half  scornfully,  and  with  a supercilious  smile  that 
disclosed  teeth  of  dazzling  whiteness,  as  he  gazed  with 
blinking  eyes  through  the  glare  toward  the  village. 


26 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Nazarka^  a Cossack  who  was  lying  on  the  ground  below, 
hastily  raised  his  head. 

They  are  going  for  water  probably/^  he  remarked. 

How  they  would  run  if  I fired  a shot  at  them!  What 
a panic  there  would  be!'’^ 

Your  gun  canT  send  a bullet  as  far  as  that.^^ 

“Yes,  it  can,  and  further  too,^^  retorted  Lukashka, 
angrily  brushing  away  the  gnats  that  were  tormenting 
him. 

Just  then  a slight  noise  in  the  underbrush  attracted  the 
Cossack^s  attention.  A spotted  dog  was  running  toward 
the  post,  wagging  its  tail  violently.  Lukashka  recognized 
it  as  the  property  of  one  of  his  neighbors,  and  the  old 
sportsman  himself  appeared  in  sight  a moment  afterward. 

Uncle  Jerochka  was  an  aged  Cossack  of  powerful  stat- 
ure, and  a heavy  beard  of  snowy  whiteness.  His  shoulders 
and  his  broad  breast  were  so  admirably  proportioned  that 
he  did  not  impress  one  as.  being  unusually  large,  however. 
He  was  clad  in  a ragged  caftan;  on  his  feet  he  wore  deer- 
skin sandals,  and  on  his  head  was  a ragged  fur  cap. 
Strapped  across  one  shoulder  was  his  Tcdbilha,  and  on  the 
other  a wild-cat  he  had  just  killed,  and  hanging  from  his 
belt  a bag  containing  his  ammunition  and  some  bread,  a 
horse-tail  to  drive  away  the  gnats,  a huge  dagger  in  a torn 
and  blood-stained  sheath,  and  two  dead  pheasants. 

“ Here,  Lion!^'’  he  cried  to  his  dog,  in  a stentorian  voice, 
that  resounded  through  the  forest.  “ Good-day,  my 
friends,  he  continued,  in  the  same  loud  tone,  as  if  wish- 
ing to  make  himself  heard  by  some  one  on  the  other  side  of 
the  river. 

“ Good-day,  good-day,  uncle,^^  answered  the  young  Cos- 
sacks, merrily. 

“ Well,  what^s  the  news  to-day?^^  asked  Uncle  Jerochka, 
wi])i ng  his  sunburned  face  on  the  sleeve  of  his  caffcan. 

“ 'Tliere^s  a strange  sort  of  falcon  hiding  in  that  plane- 
tree,  uncle.  Jjast  night  it  Hew  round  and  round  the  tree 


THE  COSSACKS.  27 

for  hours/ ^ said  Nazarka^  with  a sly  wink  at  his  com- 
panions. 

That^s  only  one  of  your  yarns/^  retorted  the  old  hunt- 
er^ suspiciously. 

You  just  watch  and  see,^^  answered  Nazarka,  laugh- 
ing. 

The  other  Cossacks  burst  into  a loud  guffaw,  for  Nazar- 
ka  had  seen  no  falcon,  and  the  young  men  had  fallen  into 
the  habit  of  teasing  Uncle  Jerochka  whenever  he  came  to 
the  post. 

^^You  canT  talk  anything  but  nonsense,^^  remarked 
Lukashka  from  his  perch,  and  his  friend  below  instantly  be- 
came quiet. 

Well,  ITl  wait  here  and  see,^^  said  Uncle  Jerochka,  to 
the  great  delight  of  the  other  Cossacks.  Have  you  seen 
any  wild  boars  about  here?^^ 

We  are  on  the  look-out  for  Abreks,  not  wild  boars,^^ 
said  the  corporal,  delighted  to  have  an  opportunity  for  a 
little  conversation.  Have  you  seen  anything  of  any?^^ 
No.  Have  you  any  brandy?  I wish  you  would  give 
me  a little  if  you  have,  for  I am  very  tired.  Give  me  a 
drink,^"  he  added,  addressing  the  corporal,  and  Vll  bring 
you  a piece  of  boards  meat  soon;  indeed  I will.^^ 

Are  you  going  to  stay  here  awhile?^^  inquired  the  cor- 
poral, ignoring  the  old  hunter'^s  request. 

I intend  to  spend  the  night  here,  and  I may  be  lucky 
enough  to  kill  some  game.  If  I do  you  shall  have  your 
share,  as  truely  as  God  lives. 

Go  back  up  the  river  and  youTl  find  a fine  drove  of 
them.  Uncle  Jerochka,  cried  Lukashka.  One  of  our  men 
shot  one  only  the  other  day,  I swear  it,  he  added,  in  a 
serious  and  convincing  voice. 

So  that  is  you/’  said  the  old  man,  looking  up. 

Where  did  he  shoot  the  boar?^^ 

Am  I so  small  that  you  couldn^t  see  me  before  re- 
torted Lukashka.  The  boar  was  near  the  ditch;  my  gun 


28 


THE  COSSACKS. 


was  in  its  sling,  so  Hioushka  shot  it.  1^11  show  you  the 
place.  It  is  not  far  off.  Uncle  Moses/ ^ he  continued,  ad- 
dressing the  corporal  in  a rather  commanding  tone,  it  is 
time  to  change  guard,  and  without  waiting  for  orders  he 
picked  up  his  gun  and  began  to  descend  from  his  perch. 

Come  down,^^  said  the  corporal,  glancing  around 
him.  It^s  your  turn  now;  isn^t  it,  Gourko?^^ 


CHAPTER  VII. 

The  sun  had  set,  and  the  shades  of  night  were  rapidly 
settling  down  upon  the  forest.  The  Cossacks  had  con- 
cluded their  duties,  and  were  assembling  for  supper.  The 
old  sportsman,  however,  still  remained  under  the  plane- 
tree,  watching  for  the  falcon.  Lukashka  was  making  a 
pheasant-trap,  singing  one  song  after  another  as  he  worked. 
It  was  evident  that  he  was  a clever  mechanic,  in  spite  of 
his  tall  stature  and  big  hands. 

It^s  supper-time,  Lukashka,  cried  the  shrill  voice  of 
Nazarka  from  the  wood  close  by. 

As  he  spoke  he  made  a plunge  through  the  brambles  and 
alighted  in  the  road  with  a live  pheasant  under  his  arm. 

Where  did  you  get  that?^^  asked  Lukashka.  ‘^It  is 
mine,  probably. 

Perhaps  it  is;  I don^t  know.'^^ 

You  found  it  in  the  ditch  near  the  old  plane-tree.  I 
set  a trap  there  yesterday.  Wring  its  neck  and  pick  it  and 
weffl  make  a dish  of  pilaf, 

Shall  we  eat  it  or  give  it  to  the  corporal?^^ 

He  has  enough  without  it. 

I can^t  bear  to  kill  a pheasant. 

Hand  it  here,  then.-^^ 

And  Lukashka  drew  a small  knife  and  cut  the  pheasant^s 
throat  so  quickly  that  the  bird  did  not  have  time  to  stretch 
its  wings  before  its  bleeding  head  was  severed  from  its 
body. 


THE  COSSACKS.  29 

said  Lukashka^  throwing  the  bird  on  the 

grass. 

Nazarka  shuddered. 

you  know  that  devil/^  referring  to  the  corporal, 
not  the  bird,  is  going  to  send  us  on  another  reconnoitering 
expedition, he  remarked.  ^^It  is  Thomushka^s  turn  to 
go,  but  he  has  sent  him  after  brandy,  and  weVe  got  to  do 
his  work  for  him.  Think  how  many  nights  we\e  been  out 
already.  Let  ’s  tell  him  flatly  that  we  wonT  go.  Tell  him 
we '’re  tired  out.  He’ll  listen  to  you.” 

What  difference  does  it  make?”  replied  Lukashka. 

If  we  were  at  the  station  it  would  be  very  different;  one 
can  have  some  fun  there,  but  when  one’s  at  the  outpost  it 
matters  very  little  whethe/one’s  on  duty  or  not.  ” 

When  are  you  going  to  the  station?” 

At  festival  time.” 

They  say  your  Dounaika  is  flirting  with  Thomushka,” 
remarked  Nazarka,  suddenly  changing  the  subject. 

Let  her;  I can  easily  And  another  ‘ another.’  ” 

Gourko  says  he  went  to  the  house,  and  found  her  hus- 
band away.  ThomushSa  was  sitting  at  the  table  with  a 
cake  in  front  of  him.  Gourko  stayed  awhile  and  then 
went  away.  As  he  left  he  stopped  a minute  under  the 
window,  and  heard  her  say:  ^ That  imp  has  gone  now;  why 
don’t  you  eat  your  cake,  my  darling?  You  mustn’t  think 
of  going  home  to-night.  Stay  here  with  me.  ’ And  Gour- 
ko called  out:  ^ Bravo!  bravo!’  from  under  the  window.” 

You  are  lying.” 

No,  I’m  not.  It’s  the  truth;  I swear  it!” 

Lukashka  was  silent  for  a moment,  then  he  said,  sul- 
lenly: 

I don’t  care;  let  her  have  the  fool  if  she  wants  him. 
There  are  plenty  of  other  girls,  and  I was  beginning  to  get 
tired  of  her  any  way.” 

What  a cool  fellow  you  are.  You  ought  to  make  up 
to  Marianka,  the  cornet’s  daughter.” 


30 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Lukashka  frowned  darkly. 

And  why  Marianka?  She^s  no  better  than  any  of  the 
rest/^  he  retorted,  as  he  started  toward  the  post,  switching 
the  leaves  from  the  branches  as  he  passed.  At  last  he 
paused  in  front  of  a smooth,  straight  sapling,  drew  out  his 
knife  and  cut  it. 

^^It  will  make  a capital  ramrod,  he  remarked,  as  he 
cut  the  air  with  it. 

The  Cossacks  were  sitting  cross-legged  on  the  ground 
around  a low  table. 

Whose  turn  is  it  to  go  out  to-night?^^  one  of  them 
called  out  to  the  corporal,  who  was  in  the  next  room. 

Whose  turn  is  it?  Let  me  see,^'^  was  the  reply. 

Bourlak  has  been  out,  and  so'  has  Thomushka,^^  he  add- 
ed, in  a rather  uncertain  voice.  Lukashka  and  Nazarka 
had  better  go,  I guess,  and  Ergouchou,  too,  if  he  has  got 
over  his  drunk. 

I think  you  must  have  taken  a drop  too  much,  too,^^ 
remarked  Nazarka,  in  a low  tone. 

The  Cossacks  began  to  laugh. 

Ergouchou  was  the  drunken  Co^ack  who  was  sleeping 
outside  the  hut.  In  a few  moments  he  woke  and  came  in, 
rubbing  his  eyes. 

Lukashka  rose  and  began  to  examine  his  gun. 

Finish  your  supper  and  start  as  soon  as  you  can,^^  cried 
the  corporal,  closing  the  door  without  waiting  for  any  sign 
of  assent  from  his  subordinates.  If  I hadn^t  received 
special  orders  I wouldnT  send  any  one  out  to-night. 

Of  course  we  will  have  to  go/^  stammered  Ergouchou. 
‘‘  The  service  demands  it.-"^ 

They  were  preparing  to  start  when  Uncle  Jerochka,  tired 
of  his  fruitless  vigil  under  the  plane-tree,  entered  the  hut. 

1^11  go  with  you,  my  boys,""^  he  said,  in  a deep  base 
voice  that  drowned  all  the  others.  You  can  hunt  Abreks^ 
and  1^11  hunt  wild  boars, 


THE  COSSACKS. 


31 


CHAPTEE  VIIL 

It  was  dark  when  old  Jerochka  and  the  three  Cossacks^ 
wrapped  in  their  bourhas,  and  with  their  guns  on  their 
shoulders^  started  down  the  bank  of  the  Terek.  Nazarka 
had  at  first  refused  to  accompany  them^  but  Lukashka 
took  him  to  task  so  savagely  that  he  dared  not  persist  in 
his  refusal.  After  walking  a short  distance  in  silence  they 
entered  a path  that  was  scarcely  visible  among  the  reeds. 
This  path  led  straight  to  the  river.  On  the  bank  lay  a big 
black  log,  around  which  the  reeds  were  trampled  and 
broken. 

Is  this  the  place  asked  Nazarka. 

Where  else  should  it  be?^'’  retorted  Lukashka.  Sit 
down;  1^11  be  back  in  a minute.  I want  to  show  Uncle 
Jerochka  where  I saw  the  wild  boars. 

After  proceeding  a short  distance  up  the  stream  he 
paused  by  a large  pool. 

It  is  here  that  they  come  to  drink,  you  see,^^  he  whis- 
pered, pointing  to  some  freshly  made  tracks. 

^*May  Christ  save  you!^^  responded  the  old  hunter, 
gratefully.  They  will  come  here  again,  so  ITl  wait  for 
them.^^ 

Lukashka  retraced  his  steps  along  the  river  bank,  glanc- 
ing now  to  the  right,  now  to  the  left  of  him. 

A sudden  rustling  among  the  reeds,  followed  by  a splash 
in  the  water,  made  him  start  and  seize  his  gun.  A wild 
boar  had  jumped  from  the  bank  into  the  stream.  Its  dark 
form  was  visible  for  a moment  on  the  surface  of  the  gleam- 
ing water,  then  disappeared  from  sight  among  the  rushes. 
Lukashka  raised  his  gun,  but  the  beast  vanished  before  he 
had  time  to  fire.  With  a gesture  of  annoyance  he  resumed 
his  course.  On  approaching  the  ambuscade  he  whistled 


32 


THE  COSSACKS. 


softly.  His  signal  was  answered^  and  he  advanced  toward 
his  comrades. 

Nazarka  was  already  sound  asleep.  Ergouchou  was  sit- 
ting with  his  legs  crossed  under  him. 

This  is  a good  place  to  watch,  an  excellent  place/ ^ he 
remarked.  Did  you  show  the  old  man  the  place?^^ 

Yes^  and  I saw^  splendid  boar  just  now  in  the  river. 
Did  you  hear  him?^^ 

Yes,  I heard  a noise,  and  concluded  you  had  scared  up 
a wild  beast  of  some  sort.  I^m  going  to  take  a little  nap 
now,^^  he  added,  wrapping  himself  in  his  cloak.  Wake 
me  up  when  the  cocks  crow.  The  regulations  require  it. 
Then  you  can  sleep  and  I will  watch. 

The  night  was  dark  and  still.  But  few  stars  were  visi- 
ble, the  western  sky  being  covered  with  a heavy  black 
cloud,  which  was  slowly  rising  higher  and  higher  in  the 
heavens.  In  front  of 'Lukashka  lay  the  Terek;  behind  and 
on  both  sides  of  him  was  a rampart  of  reeds.  Occasionally 
these  reeds  would  begin  to  wave  to  and  fro  without  any 
apparent  cause.  Further  on  water,  bank  and  cloud  were 
lost  in  the  thick  darkness. 

The  rustling  of  the  reeds,  the  heavy  breathing  of  the 
sleeping  Cossacks,  the  murmur  of  the  stream  and  the 
buzzing  of  the  insects,  all  the  monotonous  noises  of  the 
night,  were  broken  from  time  to  time  by  a distant  shot, 
the  fall  of  a bit  of  gravel,  the  splashing  of  a large  fish  or 
the  movements  of  some  wild  animal  in  a neighboring 
thicket.  An  owl  fiew  down  the  river,  slowly  flapping  its 
wings.  Directly  above  the  heads  of  the  Cossacks  it  turned 
toward  the  forest,  where  it  fluttered  around  a long  time 
amid  the  branches  of  an  old  plane-tree.  At  each  new 
sound  Lukashka  pricked  up  his  ears,  and  involuntarily 
placed  his  finger  on  the  trigger  of  his  gun. 

The  night  was  wearing  away.  The  big  black  cloud  was 
settling  down  lower  in  the  west,  and  through  its  ragged 
edge  the  young  moon  shoiie  softly  down  upon  the  mount- 


THE  COSSACKS. 


33 


ains.  The  air  had  become  much  cooler.  Nazarka  woke, 
talked  awhile  and  then  fell  asleep  again.  Lukashka  being 
too  weary  of  this  enforced  inaction  got  up,  drew  out  his 
knife  and  began  to  scrape  the  ramrod  of  his  gun.  He 
thought  of  the  Abreks.  What  if  they  should  attempt  to 
cross  the  stream  at  some  other  point?  He  peered  up  and 
down  the  river,  but  saw  only  the  opposite  bank  dimly  visi- 
ble in  the  light  of  the  crescent  moon.  Then  he  ceased  to 
think  of  the  Abreks,  and  began  to  long  for  the  moment  to 
come  for  waking  his  companions  and  returning  to  the  out- 
post. 

The  thought  of  Uounaika,  his  doucTiinlca,  or  little 
soul,^^  as  the  Circassians  style  a sweetheart,  recurred  to  his 
mind,  greatly  to  his  disgust,  however.  The  near  approach 
of  dawn  was  now  evident;  a soft  mist  began  to  rise  from 
the  river,  the  young  eagles  began  to  call  shrilly  and  to  flap 
their  wings.  The  crowing  of  a cock  resounded  in  the  dis- 
tance; it  was  quickly  answered,  then  others  were  heard. 

^^It  is  time  to  wake  them,^^  thought  Lukashka,  whose 
eyes  were  beginning  to  feel  very  heavy;  and  he  had  already 
turned  to  his  companions  when  suddenly  his  attention  was 
attracted  by  a faint  splashing  sound.  He  glanced  toward  ‘ 
the  mountains  and  toward  the  opposite  bank  of  the  Terek. 
It  seemed  to  him  that  the  bank  was  moving  and  the  stream 
motionless,  but  the  illusion  lasted  only  for  an  instant.  He 
gazed  intently  at  the  water,  and  a large  black  log  sur- 
mounted by  a long  branch  specially  attracted  his  notice, 
for  without  rolling  over  or  tossing  about,  it  moved  straight 
toward  the  middle  of  the  river.  There  it  stopped  beside 
one  of  the  sand  banks,  and  Lukashka  fancied  he  saw  a hand 
on  the  other  side  of  it.  I shall  kill  an  Abrek  all  by  my- 
self, he  muttered,  seizing  his  gun. 

He  set  up  his  gun-rest,  placed  the  weapon  upon  it,  cocked 
it  noiselessly,  and  then  took  aim.  I shall  kill  him,^^  he 
thought.  Nevertheless  his  heart  throbbed  so  violently  that 

he  waited  an  instant.  Just  then  the  log  made  a sudden 
8 


34 


THE  COSSACKS. 


plunge  and  again  began  to  move  slowly  across  the  stream 
toward  the  Kussian  shore. 

What  if  I should  miss  him/^  he  thought.  Just  then 
the  moonlight  revealed  a man^s  face  above  the  log.  It 
seemed  very  near  to  Lukashka — just  at  the  end  of  his  gun. 

It  is  an  Abrek/^  he  said  to  himself^  joyfully,  and  throw- 
ing himself  on  his  knee  and  mechanically  obeying  a habit 
formed  in  infancy,  murmured:  In  the  name  of  the  Fa- 
ther, Son — and  pulled  the  trigger.  The  flash  that  fol- 
lowed lighted  up  the  stream  for  an  instant,  and  Lukashka 
saw  the  log  tossing  and  plunging  madly  to  and  fro  as  the 
current  bore  it  swiftly  down  the  stream. 

Stop!  Hold  on!^^  cried  Ergouchou,  springing  up  from 
behind  the  ambuscade  and  seizing  his  gun, 

^^Hold  your  tongue,  you  fool,^^  muttered  Lukashka 
through  his  set  teeth.  The  Abreks  are  upon  us.'’^ 

What  are  you  shooting  at?^^  demanded  Nazarka. 

Abreks,  Abreks,  I tell  you.""^ 

You  are  joking.  Did  your  gun  go  off  accidentally?^^ 

I have  killed  an  Abrek,  I tell  you,^^  cried  Lukashka, 
springing  to  his  feet.  He  was  swimming  across  the  river, 
near  the  sand  bank,  and  I shot  him. 

^^You  are  joking,^^  repeated  Ergouchou,  rubbing  his 
eyes.  . 

Look  and  see  for  yourself,^'’  said  Lukashka,  seizing 
him  roughly  by  the  shoulders  and  glancing  in  the  direction 
indicated. 

Ergouchou  saw  the  body,  and  his  tone  suddenly  changed. 

There  must  be  more  of  them,^^  he  whispered,  shoulder- 
ing his  gun.  This  one  must  have  come  on  ahead  to 
reconnoiter;  the  others  are  close  behind  him,  you  may  be 
sure. 

Lukashka  unhooked  hi^  belt  and  pulled  off  his  coat. 

Wliat  are  you  going  to  do?^^  cried  Ergouchou. 

YoiFrc  exposing  yourself  to  certain  death.  If  you  have 
killed  him  iic  canT  get  away.  Give  me  a little  powder. 


THE  COSSACKS.  35 

You,  Nazarka,  had  better  run  to  the  post,  but  not  by  the 
river  bank.  They^'d  be  sure  to  kill 

Do  you  think  I^'m  going  back  there  alone.  Thank 
you,  you  can  go  yourself,^'’  replied  Nazarka,  angrily. 

Liikashka  was  all  ready  to  leap  into  the  river,  but  sud- 
denly changed  his  mind. 

Kun  back  to  the  post,  both  of  you,  as  quick  as  you 
can!^'"  he  exclaimed.  ^^ITl  stay  here.  Tell  the  Cossacks 
to  come  at  once.  If  the  otl^ers  have  crossed  we  must  catch 
them.''^ 

Take  care,  Lukashka;  donT  move,  or  theyTl  kill 
you/^  cried  Ergouchou,  as  he  hastily  made  the  sign  of  the 
cross  and  started  for  the  post. 

Go  along;  I know  what  I^m  about, responded  Lu- 
kashka; and  after  examining  his  gun  he  again  crouched 
down  behind  the  log. 

Left  alone,  he  never  once  took  his  eyes  from  the  sand 
bank.  With  every  nerve  strained  to  the  uttermost,  he 
watched  breathlessly  for  some  sign  of  the  other  Abreks^ 
presence;  but  he  was  some  distance  from  the  outpost,  and 
he  was  in  a perfect  fever  of  impatience.  He  was  afraid, 
too,  that  the  Abreks  would  escape  him;  he  even  feared  that 
he  would  lose  the  man  he  had  killed;  he  was  afraid  he 
would  lose  his  prey  as  he  had  lost  the  wild  boar  the  evening 
before.  He  gazed  around  him,  ready  to  fire  the  instant  an 
enemy  appeared.  The  idea  that  he  might  be  killed  himself 
never  once  occurred  to  him. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

Day  was  dawning,  and  the  body  of  the  dead  Circassian 
was  now  distinctly  visible.  The  sound  of  approaching 
footsteps  resounded  near  Lukashka,  who  hastily  raised  his 
gun  and  cocked  it,  again  murmuring:  In  the  name  of 
the  Father,  and  the  Son — But  on  hearing  the  click  of 
the  gun,  the  person  who  was  approaching  seemed  to  pause. 


36 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Hold  on  there^  Cossacks,  don^t  shoot  your  unclo!’^ 
cried  the  calm,  sonorous  voice  of  Jerochka. 

Good  heavens,  man!  I came  within  an  ace  of  killing 
youP^  exclaimed  Lukashka. 

‘‘  What  were  you  firing  at?^^  inquired  the  old  man. 

As  his  voice  broke  the  mysterious  silence  that  brooded 
over  the  scene,  the  daylight  seemed  to  become  brighter  and 
clearer. 

You  have  had  no  luck,  I see,^^  said  Lukashka;  but  I 
— I Ve  killed  a wild  beast. 

But  the  old  hunter^s  eyes  were  already  riveted  upon  the 
human  form  lying  motionless  on  the  quicksand. 

He  was  swimming  across  the  river  with  the  branch  of 
a tree  tied  on  his  back;  I saw  him,  and — 

Yes,  I understand, replied  the  old  hunter,  petulant- 
ly. You  have  killed  an  Abrek, he  added,  almost  sadly. 

I was  sitting  here  when  I suddenly  noticed  something 
moving  on  the  other  side  of  the  river,  continued  Lukash- 
ka. It  looked  like  a big  log,  but  strange  to  say,  instead 
of  following  the  course  of  the  current,  it  came  straight 
across  the  river.  In  a moment  a many's  head  appeared  be- 
hind it.  I got  my  gun  ready  and  bided  my  time.  The 
moon  came  out  from  behind  the  clouds  just  then,  and  I 
could  see  his  back  distinctly  as  he  swam  along.  ‘ In  the 
name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,^  I said,  and  fired.  I 
could  see  him  struggle.  He  uttered  a groan,  or  rather  I 
thought  I heard  one.  ^ God  be  praised;  IVe  killed  him!^ 
I thought.  He  tried  to  lift  himself  out  of  the  water,  but 
his  strength  failed  him.  He  struggled  for  awhile,  then 
ceased  to  move.  He  must  be  dead.  The  Cossacks  have 
run  to  the  outpost.  Heaven  grant  that  the  others  do  not 
escape  us. 

You  took  him  by  sur2)rise;  he  is  dead  now,  unquestion- 
ably,^^ and  the  oJd  man  shook  his  head  sadly. 

Loud  sliouts  were  now  heard;  the  other  Cossacks  were 
(;oming,  some  afoot^  some  oji  horseback. 


THE  COSSACKS.  37 

Lukashka^  without  waiting  any  longer^  undressed  him- 
self, but  without  taking  his  eyes  off  his  victim. 

Wait  for  Nazarka;  he  is  coming  with  a boat/^  cried 
the  corporal. 

Idiot!  take  your  dagger;  he  may  be  alive/^  shouted 
another  Cossack. 

Nonsense!'’^  replied  Lukashka,  as  making  the  sign  of 
the  cross  he  plunged  into  the  stream  only  to  reappear  an 
instant  after,  and  swim  toward  the  quicksand,  cleaving  the 
dark  waters  of  the  Terek  with  his  powerful  white  arms. 
When  he  reached  the  body  he  seized  it  and  shook  it  vigor- 
ously. He  is  really  dead!^^  he  cried,  exultantly. 

The  bullet  had  pierced  the  brain  of  the  Circassian.  He 
was  clad  in  blue  trousers,  and  wore  a shirt  and  caftan. 
His  gun  and  dagger  were  strapped  across  his  back,  and 
over  them  was  tied  the  large  branch  that  had  deceived 
Lukashka  at  first. 

This  is  the  way  we  catch  carp,^^  remarked  one  of  the 
Cossacks,  who  was  standing  by  the  body,  which  in  the 
meantime  had  been  pulled  out  of  the  water  and  laid  on  the 
grass. 

How  yellow  he  is!^^  remarked  another. 

Where  are  our  fellows  who  started  out  in  search  of  the 
other  Abreks?^^  inquired  another.  They  must  be  on  the 
other  side  of  the  river.  This  one  must  have  been  acting  as 
a scout,  or  he  would  not  have  ventured  across  the  river 
alone. 

He  seems  to  have  been  the  most  enterprising  of  the 
party — a true  djigliite/’  said  Lukashka,  ironically.  See 
how  carefully  his  beard  is  dyed  and  trimmed. 

I say,  Lukashka,  interrupted  the  corporal,  you  had 
better  take  his  caftan  and  dagger,  and  let  me  have  the  gun. 
ITl  give  you  three  roubles  for  it.  It  is  loaded/^  he  added, 
examining  the  weapon,  and  I should  like  to  keep  it  as  a 
memento. 

Lukashka  made  no  reply.  He  was  annoyed  at  the 


38 


THE  COSSACKS. 


rapacity  of  his  superior  officer,  but  knew  he  would  be 
obliged  to  accede  to  the  request.  He  frowned  darkly, 
however,  as  he  threw  the  caftan  on  the  ground. 

The  devil  might  at  least  have  worn  a decent  coat!^^  he 
growled.  This  thing  is  nothing  but  a rag."^^ 

It  will  answer  for  you  to  cut  wood  in,^^  remarked  one 
of  his  comrades. 

I^'m  going  home  now,  Mosef,^^  said  Lukashka  to  the 
corporal. 

Yery  well;  I\e  no  objections.  Carry  the  body  down 
to  the  outpost,  boys,^^  said  that  officer,  continuing  his  ex- 
amination of  the  gun.  Put  him  in  a cool,  shady  place. 
Perhaps  some  of  his  friends  or  relatives  will  come  to  ran- 
som the  body. 

It’s  not  so  very  warm.” 

No;  but  the  jackals  may  get  after  him,  so  you  had  ^ 
better  make  a little  canopy  of  boughs  over  the  body.  ” 

We  had  better  station  a guard  over  him,  for  they  will  /' 
be  sure  to  come  for  his  body;  and  it  wouldn’t  do  to  have  it 
all  torn  to  pieces.”  ^ v 

Well,  do  as  you  please,  Lukashka;  but  I really  think 
you  ought  to  treat,”  said  the  corporal. 

Certainly,  certainly,”  cried  the  entire  party  in  chorus. 

Think  how  lucky  you  have  been  to  kill  an  Abrek  the 
very  first  thing.” 

Buy  the  coat  and  dagger,  some  of  you,^’  said  Lukash-  ^ 
ka.  I’ll  sell  the  trousers,  too;  I can’t  get  into  them.  K, 
The  fellow  was  as  thin  as  a match.” 

One  of  the  Cossacks  bought  the  coat  for  a rouble;  an- 
other  promised  to  give  two  gallons  of  wine  for  the  dagger. 

Now  you  must  drink  to  my  health,  my  friends,”  said 
Lukashka.  I’ll  bring  you  a gallon  of  wine,  too,  from 
the  station  when  I come  back.” 

How  about  the  trousers?  Are  you  going  to  give  them 
to  tlie  girls  to  cut  u])  into  handkerchiefs?”  queried  Nazarka. 

A hearty  laugh  greeted  this  sally. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


39 


Stop  your  fooling/^  growled  the  corporal,  and  bring 
the  body  along.  Are  you  going  to  leave  it  here  all  day?^^ 

Yes;  what  are  you  waiting  for?^""  cried  Lukashka 
authoritatively.  Come  here  and  pull  the  body  further 
up  on  the  bank. 

They  all  obeyed  as  promptly  as  if  Lukashka  had  been 
their  superior  in  rank.  As  they  did  so  ISlazarka  examined 
the  face  of  the  dead  man  and  the  wound  in  his  temple. 

He  has  a scar  on  his  forehead/^  he  remarked.  That 
is  a very  lucky  thing,  for  his  relatives  will  have  no  difficulty 
in  identifying  him.^^ 

The  sun  had  risen,  and  its  rays  were  now  shining  brightly 
upon  the  thicket,  the  turbulent  waters  of  the  Terek,  and 
the  forest  in  which  the  pheasants  were  greeting  the  awaken- 
ing of  nature  with  their  shrill  cries.  They  shone  too  upon 
the  livid  face  of  the  dead  man,  whose  powerful  and  swarthy 
body  had  been  stripped  of  all  clothing  save  the  trousers, 
which  were  confined  about  the  waist  by  a leather  belt.  His 
sunburned  brow  contrasted  vividly  with  the  bluish  white- 
ness of  his  closely  shaven  head.  The  glassy  eyes  were 
open,  and  seemed  to  be  gazing  at  something  in  the  dim  dis- 
tance; the  thin  lips  wore  a crafty  smile;  the  joints  of  the 
rigid  fingers  were  covered  with  hair,  and  the  nails  were 
dyed  red. 

Lukashka’s  toilet  was  still  uncompleted.  His  neck  was 
very  red,  and  his  eyes  sparkled  more  than  usual.  He  was 
shivering  slightly,  though  a slight  steam  was  rising  from 
his  young  and  robust  body. 

What  a strong,  vigorous  fellow  he  was!^^  murmured 
Lukashka,  compelled  strongly  against  his  will  to  admire 
his  fallen  enemy. 

Yes;  if  he  could  have  got  hold  of  you  you  wouldnT 
have  had  much  chance,  replied  one  of  his  comrades. 

The  Cossacks  again  started  toward  the  outpost.  Half  an 
hour  later  Lukashka  and  Nazarka  were  both  striding  swift- 


40 


THE  COSSACKS. 


ly  through  the  forest  that  lies  between  the  river  and  the 
station. 

Don^t  let  her  know  that  I sent  you^  but  find  out 
whether  her  husband  is  at  home  or  not/^  said  Lukashka. 

All  right.  Afterward  Til  go  to  Yamka'^s.  We  might 
as  well  have  a little  fun  to-night/^  replied  the  ever-obedient 
Nazarka. 

Yes,  now  or  never/^  responded  Lukashka. 

On  reaching  the  station  the  two  Cossacks  treated  them- 
selves to  a quart  of  brandy,  and  then  threw  themselves 
down  on  the  ground  to  sleep  until  night. 


CHAPTER  X. 

Three  days  after  the  incident  we  have  just  related,  two 
companies  of  infantry  suddenly  appeared  in  the  village  of 
Norumlinsk.  Their  wagons  were  immediately  unharnessed 
in  the  public  square,  and  their  cooks  forthwith  began  their 
preparations  for  a hearty  meal.  In  a few  minutes  the  ser- 
geants were  getting  their  men  together,  stakes  were  being 
driven  into  the  ground  to  tether  the  horses,  and  the  quar- 
termasters were  running  to  and  fro  finding  lodgings  for  the 
officers  and  soldiers.  The  companies  had  received  orders 
to  station  themselves  in  this  village,  so  the  soldiers  had 
only  to  make  themselves  afc  home,  though  why  this  particu- 
lar village  had  been  selected  for  , their  quarters  no  one 
seemed  to  know  or  care  to  know.  The  soldiers,  tired  and 
covered  with  dust,  scattered  through  the  village  like  a 
swarm  of  bees.  Ignoring  the  Cossacks^  evident  dis- 
satisfaction, they  chatted  gayly  among  themselves,  entering 
the  cottages  and  leaving  their  knapsacks  and  ammunition 
there  and  jesting  familiarly  with  the  women.  Groups  gath- 
ered around  tlie  soup  kettles  in  the  square,  watching  the 
fire  crac^kle  and  roar,  or  following  with  their  gaze  the  steam 
from  tlie  savoi-y  mixture  intended  for  their  refreshment. 
^I’hey  laughed,  too,  and  jested  among  themselves  at  the 


THE  COSSACKS. 


41 


customs  and  habits  of  the  Cossacks^  so  unlike  those  of  Eus- 
sians;  and  on  every  side  resounded  shrill  cries  and  vitupera- 
tions from  the  Cossack  women  as  they  defended  their  prop- 
erty and  refused  their  unwelcome  guests  water  and  house- 
hold utensils.  Children  clung  closely  to  their  mothers, 
watching  the  intruders  with  mingled  terror  and  curiosity. 

Olenine,  who  had  been  acting  as  a color-bearer  of  this 
regiment  for  several  months,  had  been  quartered  in  one  of 
the  best  houses  in  the  station — that  of  Cornet  Ilea  Vassil- 
itch,  the  husband  of  Mother  Oulita. 

‘^What  is  to  become  of  us,  Dimitri  Andreitch?''^  cried 
Vania,  breathlessly,  addressing  Olenine,  as  that  young  gen- 
tleman, mounted  on  a Kabarda  mare,  rode  gayly  into  the 
Cornells  court-yard  after  a five  hours^  march, 

Why?^^  he  inquired,  patting  his  horse^s  neck,  and  gaz- 
ing with  no  little  amusement  at  his  exasperated  servant. 

Olenine^s  appearance  had  undergone  a complete  change. 
His  once  smooth  cheeks  were  now  covered  with  a thick 
beard;  his  complexion,  formerly  rendered  sallow  by  late 
hours  and  dissipation,  had  become  clear  though  sunburned. 
His  closely  fitting  black  coat  had  given  place  to  a loose 
blouse,  and  he  carried  a rifie;  but  though  dressed  in  Cir- 
cassian style,  he  wore  his  new  garments  rather  awkwardly. 
It  was  easy  for  one  to  detect  the  Eussian  at  a glance;  no 
one  would  have  mistaken  him  for  a djighite.  Neverthe- 
less he  was  evidently  well  pleased  himself. 

‘^You  laugh,  replied  Vania,  ^^but  indeed,  sir,  I wish 
you  would  speak  to  these  people.  One  can  get  nothing  out 
of  them;  they  won^t  even  answer  a civil  question.  One 
would  suppose  they  didn^t  understand  Eussian. 

You  should  have  applied  to  the  commandant  of  the 
station  for  information.*^^ 

But  I didn^t  know  where  to  find  him.^^ 

What  has  annoyed  you  so  much?^^ 

The  master  of  the  house  is  not  at  home.  He  has  gone 
to  some  outlandish  place  or  other,  they  say,  and  the  old 


42 


THE  COSSACKS. 


woman  is  a perfect  devil.  How  we  are  going  to  live  here 
I can^t  imagine.  They  are  worse  than  the  Tartars,  I 
tell  you,  though  they  call  themselves  Christians.  He  has 
gone  to  the  kriga.  What  the  devil  is  a kriga  ? Nobody 
knows.  They  must  have  invented  the  word  themselves. 

Never  mind,  Ivan,^^  said  Olenine,  good-naturedly. 

ITl  find  the  mistress  of  the  house  and  arrange  matters. 
Wefil  get  on  all  right,  never  fear;  only  keep  your  tem- 
per. 

Vania  regarded  Olenine  only  in  the  light  of  a master, 
and  Olenine  saw  in  Vania  only  a servant,  and  both  would 
have  been  greatly  astonished  to  learn  that  they  were  really 
intimate  friends  without  suspecting  it.  When  Vania  was 
eleven  years  old  he  became  a servant  in  the  house  of 
Olenine^s  father;  Olenine  was  about  the  same  age,  and 
when  he  became  about  fifteen  he  amused  himself  by  edu- 
cating Vania,  and  taught  him  a little  French,  of  which  he 
was  very  proud.  Even  now,  when  he  was  in  a good  hu- 
mor, he  would  always  say  a few  French  words,  invariably 
accompanying  them  with  a complacent  laugh. 

Olenine  ran.  up  the  steps  and  pushed  open  the  cottage 
door.  Marianna,  clad  only  in  a loose  pink  slip,  after  tht ' 
fashion  of  Cossack  girls,  sprung  with  a bound  from  the 
door  to  the  wall,  covering  a part  of  her  face  with  her  full 
sleeve.  In  spite  of  the  rather  dim  light,  the  tall,  graceful 
form  of  the  young  Cossack  girl  was  distinctly  visible  to  the 
admiring  eyes  of  the  young  man.  Gazing  upon  the  girl- 
like, but  vigorous  form,  whose  outlines  were  only  veiled^ 
not  concealed,  by  the  thin  calico,  garment  she  wore,  and  at 
the  superb  black  eyes  that  were  surveying  him  with  half 
frightened,  half  childish  curiosity,  the  thought,  Here  she 
is  at  last!^^  darted  through  his  mind.  Then  he  said  to 
himself  that  he  should  probably  see  many  other  such  girls. 
Mother  Oulita,  whom  he  now  noticed  for  the  first  time, 
was  on  her  knees,  with  her  back  to  him,  washing  up  thQ 
lloor. 


THE  COSSACKS.  43 

Good-evening,  mother/^  said  he;  I have  come  to  see 
about  the  lodgings. 

The  old  woman  turned  her  wrinkled  but  still  handsome 
face  toward  him. 

^^What  do  you  want?  How  dare  you  come  here  to 
bother  me,  plague  take  you!^^  she  cried,  gazing  at  him 
askance  from  beneath  frowning  brows. 

Olenine  had  always  flattered  himself  that  his  regiment 
would  be  cordially  received  by  the  Cossacks,  so  this  de- 
cidedly rude  treatment  astonished  him;  but  without  losing 
countenance,  he  endeavored  tq  explain  to  the  old  woman 
that  he  would  pay  a fair  and  even  liberal  rent. 

What  ill  wind  blew  you  here?^^  she  retorted.  You 
are  not  wanted;  you  may  rest  assured  of  that.  I donT 
need  your  dirty  rdoney.  Look  at  you  now,  poisoning  my 
house  with  tobacco  smoke,  and  offering  to  pay  me  for  it. 
Fy  on  your  money!  May  a thousand  bombs  rend  your  en- 
trails!^’ she  almost  shrieked. 

Vania  is  right, thought  Olenine;  no  Tartar  would 
be  half  as  bad  as  this.  ” 

And  he  left  the  cottage,  followed  by  the  shrill  impreca- 
tions of  the  old  woman. 

Just  as  he  was  leaving  the  house,  Marianna,  still  in  the 
same  loose  garment,  but  swathed  up  to  the  very  eyes  in  a 
big  white  handkerchief,  darted  by  him  and  down  the  steps. 
There  she  paused,  and  turning  suddenly,  cast  a quick 
glance  at  the  young  man  from  out  her  laughing  eyes,  then 
disappeared  around  the  corner  of  the  house. 

Her  Arm,  buoyant  tread,  her  sparkling  eyes  and  her  half 
curious,  half  frightened  expression  all  made  a deep  impres- 
sion on  Olenine. 

It  is  she!’’  he  said  to  himself,  and  thinking  more  about 
the  beautiful  Marianna  than  about  his  lodgings,  he  rejoined 
Vania. 


44 


' THE  COSSACKS. 


CHAPTEE  XI. 

The  master  of  the  house  returned  that  evening,  and  on 
learning  that  he  would  be  well  paid  for  the  use  of  his 
rooms,  he  managed  to  calm  his  wife^s  wrath  and  indigna- 
tion, and  induce  her  to  consent  to  the  arrangement. 

They  finally  agreed  to  relinquish  this,  their  summer  cot- 
tage, to  Olenine  for  a rent  of  three  rubles  a month,  and 
take  up  their  abode  in  the  cottage  they  usually  occupied  in 
winter.  After  his  rooms  were  put  in  order  Olenine  seated 
himself  by  the  window  and  looked  out  into  the  street. 
The  heat  was  abating,  and  a profound  silence  reigned,  for 
the  soldiers  were  all  installed  in  their  new  quarters,  and 
the  cattle  and  the  laboring  population  had  not  yet  re- 
turned. The  house  Olenine  occupied  was  near  the  edge  of 
the  village,  and  the  quiet  and  comfort  of  his  new  abode 
was  most  refreshing  after  three  months  of  camp  life.  He 
reviewed  the  recent  campaign,  the  dangers  he  had  incur- 
red, and  the  highly  creditable  manner  in  which  he  had  con- 
ducted himself.  All  recollection  of  his  former  life  in  Mos- 
cow had  grown  dim;  he  had  entered  upon  a new  existence 
in  which  there  was  nothing  to  prevent  him  from  regaining 
his  own  self-respect,  and  he  experienced  a feeling  of  inex- 
plicable and  irrational  contentment.  He  glanced  out  at 
some  little  boys  who  were  playing  ball  in  the  shade,  and 
then  about  his  new  dwelling,  and  said  to  himself  that  he 
was  sure  to  enjoy  this  new  life  amazingly. 

He  gazed  too  at  the  cloudless  sky,  and  at  the  distant 
mountains  with  a profound  appreciation  of  their  beauty. 

Uncle  Jerochka  has  licked  the  pitcher!  He  has 
Bwap2)od  his  dagger  for  brandy  yelled  the  little  Cossack 
boys,  suddenly,  as  they  2)erceived  that  worthy  coming  up 


THE  COSSACKS.  45 

the  little  street  with  his  gun  on  his  shoulder  and  three 
pheasants  dangling  from  his  belt. 

I have  sinned,  my  boys,  I have  sinned,  he  replied, 
waving  his  arms  and  glancing  stealthily  at  the  houses  on 
both  sides  of  the  street.  Yes,  I have  swapped  my  dagger 
for  brandy,  he  continued,  with  pretended  indifference, 
though  he  was  really  much  annoyed  by  the  jibes  of  the 
children. 

Olenine  was  astonished  at  the  lads^  impertinence,  but  he 
was  even  more  astonished  at  the  old  hunter^  s expressive 
face  and  athletic  form. 

I say,  Cossack,  come  here  a moment  he  cried. 

The  old  man  paused  and  turned  toward  the  window. 

Good-day,  my  worthy  sir,^^  he  said,  uncovering  his 
closely  clipped  head. 

“ Good-day;  what  are  those  boys  about?^^ 

Uncle.  Jerochka  approached  the  window. 

They  are  teasing  me,  but  I like  it.  I don^t  mind  their 
having  a little  fun  out  of  their  old  uncle,  he  said,  with 
the  slight  drawl  common  to  very  old  persons.  ‘ ^ Are  you 
in  command  of  this  company?^^ 

No,  I am  only  the  standard-bearer.  Where  did  you 
kill  those  pheasants?^^ 

In  the  forest.  Won^t  you  have  a pair?^^  handing  two 
birds  through  the  window.  Are  you  much  of  a hunter?’^ 

I^m  very  fond  of  it.  I killed  four  pheasants  during 
the  campaign. 

Four!  that^s  a fine  lot,^^  said  the  old  man,  laughing. 

Are  you  fond  of  drink  too?^^ 

Of  course;  I like  it  very  much  at  the  proper  time. 

^^Ah!  I see  you  Ye  a young  man  after  my  own  heart! 
We  shall  be  friends,  I am  sure,^^  was  the  response. 

Then  come  in  and  wefil  take  a glass  together. 

A moment  later  the  ruddy  countenance  of  Uncle  Jeroch- 
ka  appeared  in  the  door- way  of  the  cottage,  and  not  until 
then  did  Olenine  realize  the  gigantic  size  and  muscular 


46 


THE  COSSACKS. 


strength  of  this  venerable  man,  whose  long  beard  was  of' 
snowy  whiteness^  and  whose  bronzed  face  was  lined  with 
deep  furrows,  imprinted  there  by  old  age  and  hard  toil. 
But  in  spite  of  his  advanced  years  he  had  the  broad  shoul- 
ders and  firm  muscles  of  a much  younger  man.  His  head 
was  covered  with  scars;  his  neck  was  thick  and  covered 
with  thick  folds  of  flesh  like  that  of  a bull,  and  his  callous 
hands  were  scratched  anS.  bruised.  He  stepped  briskly  into 
the  cottage,  deposited  his  gun  in  one  corner  of  the  room, 
over  which  he  cast  a hasty  glance,  which  gave  him  a tolera- 
bly correct  estimate  of  the  value  of  each  article,  however. 

Extending  his  brawny  hand  to  Olenine,  he  said : 

KosliMldy,  that  is  to  say  in  Tartar:  ‘ I wish  you  good 
health.  Peace  be  unto  you.  ^ 

Yes,  I know,^^  replied  Olenine,  accepting  the  proffered 
hand.  Koshkildy,^^ 

^^Ha,  ha!  you  know  nothing  at  all  about  it!  How 
stupid  you  are!^^  exclaimed  Jerochka,  shaking  his  head  re- 
proachfully. When  I say  ^ Koshkildy!^  you  ought  to  re- 
ply, ^ Allah  razi  bo  sun^ — ^ Heaven  preserve  you,""  and  not 
repeat  KosliMldy,  I will  teach  you.  It  was  just  the  same 
with  Ilia  Masseitch,  one  of  your  Russians,  who  came  here. 
We  were  the  best  of  friends.  He  was  a splendid  fellow,  a 
capital  drinker — and  what  a shot  he  was!  I taught  him 
everything. 

And  what  will  you  teach  me?^^  inquired  Olenine,  be- 
coming more  and  more  interested  in  the  old  man. 

ITl  teach  you  how  to  hunt  and  fish,  and  ride  like  the 
Circassians,  and  if  you  want  a sweetheart,  1^11  find  one  for 
you.  That’s  the  kind  of  a man  I am!’"’  Here  the  old 
hunter  began  to  laugh.  I am  tired;  may  I sit  down? 
Karya  he  added. 

And  what  does  that  word  mean?^^ 
ary (t  means  ^ good,  Cin  the  Georgian  tongue.  It  is 
my  favorite  word.  When  I karya  I am  always  ma 


THE  COSSACKS.  47 

good  humor.  But  say,  why  don^t  they  bring  out  the  wine? 
You  have  a soldier  to  wait  on  you,  I suppose?^  ^ 

Yes.  Here,  Ivan!^''  called  Olenine. 

All  you  Eussians  are  named  Ivan.  Is  your  name  Ivan, 
too?  I say,  my  good  fellow, he  continued,  seeing  Vania 
appear  in  answer  to  his  master ^s  summons,  go  and  ask 
the  old  woman  for  some  wine  from  that  keg  she  just 
opened.  Its  the  best  in  the  village,  but  don^t  give  more 
than  thirty  kopecks  a quart.  Our  people  are  the  biggest 
fools  imaginable,  he  added,  in  a confidential  tone  as  soon 
as  Vania  left  the  cottage;  they  regard  you  as  brutes. 
They  have  an  even  poorer  opinion  of  you  than  of  the  Tar- 
tars. As  for  me,  a man  is  a man  in  my  estimation;  he  has 
a soul  even  if  he  is  a soldier.  Don^t  you  think  I am  right? 
Ilia  Masseitch  was  a soldier,  and  he  had  a heart  of  gold. 
These  are  my  sentiments,  and  some  of  our  people  don^t 
think  very  well  of  me  on  account  of  them,  but  that  doesn^t 
trouble  me  much.  I take  life  easy,  and  I am  fond  of 
everybody.  That  is  the  best  way,  isn^t  it,  father?^^  and  as 
he  spoke  the  old  hunter  tapped  the  young  man  on  the 
shoulder  almost  caressingly. 


OHAPTEE  XII. 

Vakia  was  now  in  the  best  possible  humor.  He  had 
had  time  to  put  his  establishment  in  order,  to  get  shaved 
at  the  barber^s,  and  to  pull  his  trousers  out  of  his  boot-legs 
in  acknowledgment  of  the  fact  that  his  company  was  now 
in  very  comfortable  quarters.  He  bestowed  a scrutinizing 
and  rather  malevolent  glance  at  Jerochka,  whom  he  evi- 
dently regarded  as  a strange  kind  of  wild  beast,  and  after 
shaking  his  head  at  the  sight  of  the  mud-stained  fioor,  he 
took  a couple  of  empty  bottles  from  under  the  bench,  and 
went  in  search  of  the  owner  of  the  house. 

Good-evening,  my  friends,'’^  he  began,  resolved  to  be 
as  polite  and  amiable  as  possible;  my  master  would  like 


48 


THE  COSSACKS. 


to  purchase  some  newly  made  wine.  Please  give  me  some 
of  the  best  you  have.'^^ 

Mother  Oulita  made  no  reply.  Her  daughter  was  stand- 1 
ing  before  a little  mirror  arranging  a handkerchief  on  her  ' 
head^  and  she  turned  toward  Vania,  but  without  uttering  a 
word. 

I will  pay  whatever  you  ask,  my  good  friends,  con- 
tinued Vania,  rattling  some  silver  in  his  pocket.  If  you 
will  be  accommodating  we  will  be  the  same.  It  is  much 
better  to  live  in  peace  than  in  discord. 

How  much  wine  do  you  want?^^  asked  the  old  wom- 
an, brusquely. 

A gallon.''^ 

Go  and  get  it  for  him,^^  said  Dame  Oulita,  turning  to 
her  daughter.  Draw  it  from  the  cask  we  just  opened, 
my  dear. 

The  young  girl  took  the  keys  and  left  the  room,  followed 
by  Vania. 

Tell  me  who  that  is?^^  inquired  Olenine,  seeing  Marian- 
na pass  the  window. 

The  old  hunter  winked  and  nudged  his  host. 

Wait,^^  he  said,  putting  his  head  out  of  the  window. 

Hem.,  hem!^^  beginning  to  cough,  Marianouchka,  I 
say,  Marianouchka,  give  me  a kiss,  wonT  you?  AinT  I a 
funny  fellow  ?^^  he  whispered,  turning  to  Olenine. 

The  young  girl  glanced  behind  her,  all  the  while  con- 
tinuing on  her  way  with  the  firm,  elastic  tread  peculiar  to 
Cossack  women. 

If  youfil  be  my  sweetheart  youfil  be  a happy  girl,^^ 
cried  Jerochka.  Then,  again  addressing  his  companion: 

I say,  isnT  she  a beauty,  a regular  stunner ?^^ 

8he  is  very  beautiful,  replied  Olenine.  Get  her  to 
come  in^  canT  you?^^ 

‘^No,  no,  Ijiikaslika  is  going  to  marry  her;  Lukashka, 
the  young  (Jossack  wiio  just  killed  an  Abrek.  1^11  find  you 
a liaudsomer  girl.  Tve  said  it,  and  ITl  keep  my  word.""^ 


THE  COSSACKS.  49 

‘^What  an  old  sinner  yon  are!^^  exclaimed  Olenine, 
laughing. 

And  why?^^  retorted  the  old  hunter.  Is  it  any  sin 
to  look  at  a pretty  girl?  Is  it  any  sin  to  love  her?  That 
may  be  your  opinion;  it  certainly  isnT  mine.  God^  who 
made  you^  made  women  too.  He  created  everything.  No, 
to  admire  a pretty  girl  is  no  sin.  She  was  made  to  be  loved 
and  admired.*’^ 

Marianna  crossed  the  court-yard  and  entered  the  wine- 
cellar.  Vania  remained  in  the  door- way  watching  the  girl, 
who  looked  very  odd  to  him  in  her  one  cotton  garment,  so 
scant  in  the  back  and  short  in  front;  but  it  was  her  neck- 
lace of  silver  coins  that  amused  him  most.  He  said  to 
himself  that  the  people  in  his  native  town  would  laugh 
heartily  at  the  sight  of  such  a girl.  Still  she  is  very  well 
for  a change,  and  ITl  tell  my  master  so,^^  he  said  to  him- 
self. 

What  are  you  waiting  for,  you  idiot  ?^'^  cried  the  girl, 
suddenly.  Give  me  the  jug.-’^ 

She  filled  it  with  ruby  wine,  and  handed  it  to  Vania. 

Give  the  money  to  my  mother,  she  said,  drawing 
back  haughtily,  as  Vania  offered  her  some  silver. 

Vania  smiled. 

AVhy  are  you  so  crabbed,  my  dear?^^  he  said,  good-nat- 
uredly, as  the  girl  put  the  bung  in  the  keg. 

Marianna  laughed  in  turn. 

We  are  very  nice  people,  my  master  and  1/’  continued 
Vania.  We  are  so  nice  that  the  people  have  always  been 
charmed  with  us  wherever  we  have  lived.  We  are  no  com- 
mon trash,  you  must  understand.  My  master  is  a noble- 
man. 

The  young  girl  paused  to  listen. 

Is  your  master  married ?^^  she  asked. 

No,  he^s  a bachelor.  Noblemen  never  marry  young. 

That^s  a good  joke.  As  big  as  a buffalo  and  too  young 
to  marry.  Is  he  in  command  of  the  company?^^ 


50 


THE  COSSACKS. 


My  master  is  only  a color-bearer;  tliat  is  to  say,  he  ig 
not  an  officer  yet,  but  he  is  of  greater  importance  than 
many  a general.  He  is  a very  exalted  personage,  for  not 
only  our  colonel,  but  the  czar  himself  knows  him.  We 
are  not  paupers  either,  like  so  many  army  officers.  Our 
father  was  a senator,  who  owned  more  than  a thousand 
serfs,  and  they  send  us  thousands  of  rubles  at  a time. 
That  is  one  reason  we  are  such  favorites.  What^s  the  use 
of  being  a captain  if  one  hasnT  anymoney?^^ 

Go  on  now;  I want  to  shut  the  door,""^  interrupted  the 

girl. 

So  Vania  took  the  wine  to  Olenine,  remarking  in  French 
that  the  Cossack  girl  was  very  pretty,  and  then  burst  into 
a silly  laugh. 


CHAPTER  XIIL 

The  sun  had  disappeared  behind  the  snow-clad  mount- 
ains, and  twilight  was  gradually  creeping  over  earth  and 
sky.  The  inhabitants  of  the  village  were  returning  from 
their  work,  and  the  streets  were  full  of  bellowing  cattle 
enveloped  in  a thick  cloud  of  dust.  Soon,  the  labors  of  the 
day  being  ended,  the  Cossack  girls  gathered  on  the  street 
corners  and  upon  the  terraces  in  front  of  their  cottages. 
Marianna,  having  milked  the  buffalo  and  two  other  cows, 
joined  one  of  these  groups,  which  was  composed  of  several 
women  and  an  aged  Cossack. 

The  shooting  of  the  Abrek  was  the  subject  of  their  con- 
versation. The  Cossack  was  giving  an  account  of  their 
enerny^s  death,  and  the  women  were  questioning  him  about 
it. 

He  will  probably  receive  a large  reward, remarked 
one  of  tliem,  referring  of  course  to  Lukashka. 

(J(3rtainly.  Tliey  say  lic^ll  get  the  cross. 

“ Tiie  corporal  served  him  a mean  trick,  though.  Ho 


THE  COSSACKS.  51 

took  the  Abrek^s  gun^  but  the  authorities  at  Kizliar  have 
found  it  out.-"^ 

What  a scoundrel  that  corporal  is.'^^ 

They  say  Lukashka  has  come  back/^  remarked  one  of 
the  young  girls. 

Yes;  he^s  at  Yamka^s  (a  well-known  drinking  sa- 
loon)^ drinking  with  Nazarka.  They  say  they  Ve  drunk  a 
gallon  already. 

How  lucky  Lukashka  always  is;  but  he^s  a nice  honest 
fellow.  So  was  his  father  before  him.  The  whole  village 
mourned  when  he  was  killed.  Look!  there  they  come 
now,^^  continued  the  speaker,  pointing  to  some  men  who 
were  coming  up  the  street.  Ergouchou  is  with  them. 
The  old  drunkard  ferretted  them  out  of  course. 

As  they  approached  the  group  Ergouchou  staggered, 
laughed  noisily  and  nearly  knocked  Nazarka  over. 

Why  ain^t  you  singing,  you  wenches?^  ^ he  cried,  bois- 
terously. Give  us  a song,  I say. 

And  why  should  we  be  singing,  I^d  like  to  know?^^  re- 
torted one  of  the  group.  This  isnT  a fete  day.  Sing 
yourself  if  you  want  to.  You  are  drunk  enough. 

Uncle  Ergouchou  laughed  and  nudged  Nazarka. 

Sing, said  he,  ^^and  ITl  sing  with  you.  Begin;  Um 
ready. 

Lukashka  had  approached  more  deliberately.  Remov- 
ing his  cap  he  now  paused  in  front  of  the  girls.  His  cheeks 
and  neck  were  very  red.  He  spoke  quietly  and  sedately, 
yet  in  all  his  movements  and  words  there  was  much  more 
life  and  animation  than  in  Nazarka'^s  garrulous  excitement. 
He  might  be  compared  to  a spirited  horse  which  neighs  and 
prances  and  then  suddenly  comes  down  upon  his  four  feet 
and  remains  there  motionless.  His  eyes  sparkled  with 
merriment,  though  he  said  little  as  he  glanced  first  at  his 
intoxicated  companions  and  then  at  the  girls.  As  Marian- 
na approached  he  made  way  for  her,  slowly  lifting  his  cap, 
then  placed  himself  opposite  her  with  his  thumb  stuck  in 


S2 


THE  COSSACKS. 


his  belt.  Marianna  replied  to  his  salute  with  a slight  nod, 
then  seated  herself  on  the  ground  and  took  some  sunflower 
seeds  from  her  bosom.  Lukashka  did  not  take  his  eyes  off 
her,  but  he,  too,  began  crunching  the  seeds.  After  Mari- 
anna joined  them  there  was  a moment^s  silence. 

^^Are  you  going  to  stay  long.^^^  inquired  one  of  the 
women  at  last. 

Only  until  to-morrow  morning,  answered  Lukashka, 
gravely. 

May  Heaven  shower  its  richest  blessings  upon  you!^^ 
said  the  aged  Cossack.  I rejoice  at  your  good  fortune, 
as  I just  remarked. 

And  so  do  J/’  cried  Ergouchou.  Just  see  the  fine 
company  we\e  got  now,^^  he  added,  pointing  to  a passing 
soldier. 

They\e  quartered  three  of  the  devils  on  us,^^  re- 
marked one  of  the  women.  My  husband  complained  to 
our  chief,  but  he  could  do  nothing  to  prevent  it.^^ 

So  you  only  had  your  labor  for  your  pains. 

“ Have  they  scented  up  everything  in  your  house  with 
tobacco  smoke  asked  one  of  the  women. 

No,  they  only  smoke  in  the  court-yard;  we  won^t  allow 
them  to  do  it  in  the  house.  Even  if  the  commander  or- 
dered it,  I wouldn^t  allow  them  to  do  it.  They  steal 
everything  they  can  lay  their  hands  on,  and  the  station 
keeper  knows  it,  son  of  the  devil  that  he  is.  He  hasn^t 
any  soldiers  at  his  house,  I notice. 

He  doesnT  like  them,^^  said  Ergouchou. 

And  that  isnT  all,^^  said  Nazarka,  trying  to  imitate 
Lukashka,  and  pushing  his  cap  back  on  the  nape  of  his 
neck;  they  say  the  Cossack  girls  will  be  ordered  to  make 
the  soldiers^  beds  and  to  treat  them  on  wine  and  honey. 

Ergouchou  laughed  boisterously,  and  seizing  the  girl 
nearest  liim  kissed  lier,  exclaiming: 

Yes,  it^B  true;  every  word  of  it. 


THE  COSSACKS.  63 

Let  me  alone  cried  the  girl.  1^11  tell  my  mother 
of  you. '''' 

^^Tell  her/^  exclaimed  Ergouchou.  ^^What  Nazarka 
says  is  true.  You^ll  see  a printed  bulletin  to  that  effect 
out  to-morrow.  And  as  he  spoke  he  hugged  the  next 
girb  who  chanced  to  be  the  plump,  rosy-cheeked  Oustinka. 

Don^t  touch  me,  you  rascal she  cried,  shaking  her 
fist  at  her  persecutor. 

The  Cossack  staggered. 

Don^t  tell  me  women  are  weak,^^  he  cried.  This 
one  has  nearly  killed  me. 

‘^Be  off,  you  old  scamp  was  the  laughing  retort. 

What  a pity  it  is  the  Abrek  didn^t  see  you  and  kill  you. 

All  this  time  Lukashka  had  not  once  taken  his  eyes  off 
Marianna,  and  it  was  very  evident  that  the  scrutiny  em- 
barrassed the  young  girl. 

They  say  one  of  the  officers  is  staying  at  your  house, 
he  said  at  last,  stepping  a little  closer  to  Marianna. 

As  usual,  that  young  girl  was  rather  slow  in  replying, 
but  she  raised  her  large  dark  eyes  to  the  Oossack^’s  face. 

An  old  woman  answered  for  her. 

Yes,  they  are  very  fortunate  in  having  two  houses, 
she  remarked.  Tomouchkeni  has  but  one,  and  they 
have  quartered  one  of  the  officers  on  him.  The  house  is 
filled  with  the  Eussian^s  traps,  and  the  family  donT  know 
what  to  do  with  themselves.  I don’t  know  why  such  a 
drove  of  them  should  be  sent  to  our  village.  What  is  to 
become  of  us?  They  must  be  up  to  some  deviltry. 

I heard  they  were  going  to  build  a bridge  across  the 
Terek,  remarked  one  of  the  young  girls. 

I heard  they  were  going  to  dig  an  enormous  hole  and 
throw  all  the  girls  who  are  not  fond  of  young  men  into  it. 

Everybody  laughed,  and  Ergouchou  threw  his  arms 
around  an  old  woman,  skipping  Marianna,  who  was  next 
in  order. 


64 


THE  COSSACKS. 


‘‘Why  don’t  you  hug  Marianna?  It  was  her  turn/’ 
cried  Nazarka. 

“I  like  my  old  woman  best;  she’s  the  sweetest/’  cried 
Ergouchou^  covering  her  face  with  kisses  in  spite  of  her 
struggles  to  free  herself. 

“ Where  does  the  officer  lodge?”  inquired  Lukashka, 
stepping  still  closer  to  Marianna. 

She  reflected  a moment^  then  replied: 

“ In  the  new  cottage.” 

“ Is  he  young  or  old?”  asked  the  Cossack,  seating  him- 
self beside  her. 

“ How  should  I know?  I went  to  draw  some  wine  for 
him,  and  caught  a glimpse  of  him  at  the  window  with 
Jerochka.  He  has  red  hair,  I think,  and  he  brought  a 
whole  wagon  load  of  baggage.  ” 

“ How  glad  I am  I got  leave,”  said  Lukashka,  gazing 
searchingly  at  the  young  girl. 

“ Are  you  going  to  stay  long?”  inquired  his  companion, 
with  a faint  smile. 

“ Only  until  to-morrow  morning.  Give  me  some  seeds,” 
he  added,  holding  out  his  hand. 

She  complied  with  the  request,  smiling  frankly. 

“ I was  dying  to  see  you  again,  indeed  I was,”  said  the 
young  man.  Then  he  added  something  in  a whisper,  smil- 
ing the  while.  ^ 

“ Once  for  all  I tell  you  I won’t  come,”  suddenly  an- 
swered Marianna  aloud,  and  drawing  away  from  him. 

“ I assure  you  I have  something  of  great  importance  to 
say  to  you.  Come,  Machinka,  do  be  reasonable.” 

Marianna  shook  her  head,  though  she  still  smiled. 

“ Marianka,  sister  Marianka,  mother  wants  you  to  come 
to  supper,”  cried  the  girl’s  little  brother,  running  up  to 
the  grouj). 

“ I’m  coming.  Eun  along,  child.  I’ll  be  there  in  a 
moment.  ” 

LukasJika  rose  and  lil'tcd  liis  (;a]). 


THE  COSSACKS. 


55 


It  is  time  for  me  to  go^  too/^  he  said^  with  pretended 
indifference^  and  in  another  moment  he  had  disappeared 
around  the  corner  of  the  next  street. 

It  was  quite  dark  now^  and  myriads  of  stars  were  glit- 
tering in  the  heavens.  The  streets  were  dark  and  com- 
paratively deserted.  The  laughter  of  Nazarka  and  his 
companions  was  distinctly  audible.  For  a minute  or  two 
after  leaving  them  Lukashka  sauntered  leisurely  along, 
but  as  soon  as  he  was  out  of  their  sight  he  darted  off,  not 
in  the  direction  of  his  own  home,  but  toward  the  cornet^s 
cottage.  After  traversing  two  streets  on  the  run  he  paused, 
and,  crouching  down  in  the  shadow  of  a hedge,  he-  gathered 
the  skirts  of  his  long  coat  around  him. 

What  a proud  little  devil  she  is!'’^  he  said  to  himself, 
referring  to  Marianna;  but  wait.^^ 

The  sound  of  a woman^'s  footsteps  aroused  him  from 
these  reflections.  Marianna  was  coming  straight  toward 
him  with  bowed  head,  walking  with  a rapid  but  even  tread 
and  striking  the  hedge  with  a long  switch  she  held  in  her 
hand.  Lukashka  suddenly  rose.  Marianna  gave  a violent 
start. 

Oh,  you  rascal!  how  you  frightened  me!  So  you  didnT 
go  home  at  all.^^  And  she  burst  into  a hearty  laugh. 

Lukashka  slipped  one  arm  about  the  girffs  waist,  and 
with  his  other  hand  turned  her  face  up  to  his. 

I have  something  to  saj  to  you.  Pray — His  voice 
was  husky  and  broken. 

What  can  you  have  to  say  to  me  on  this  particular 
night?  Mother  is  waiting  for  me,  and  you — you  had  bet- 
ter go  and  see  your  sweetheart. 

As  she  spoke  she  freed  herself  from  his  grasp,  and  ran 
on  a few  steps.  When  she  reached  the  gate  of  her  own 
yard,  however,  she  paused  and  turned  to  the  Cossack,  who 
had  been  following  her  and  beseeching  her  to  grant  him  a 
moment  ^s  hearing. 


56 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Well,  wliat  do  you  want  to  say  to  me?^^  she  asked, 
laughing. 

Don^’t  laugh  at  me,  I beg  of  you,  Marianna.  What 
if  I had  got  a sweetheart,  I^’ll  let  her  go  to  the  devil  if  you 
but  say  the  word;  1^11  do  whatever  you  wish.  Do  you  hear 
that?"’"’  he  continued,  rattling  some  silver  in  his  pocket. 
‘‘We  might  as  well  enjoy  ourselves.  Everybody  else  does, 
while  I — thanks  to  you,  Marianouchka — have  no  pleasure 
whatever. 

The  girl  made  no  reply,  but  with  a rapid  movement 
broke  the  switch  she  was  carrying  into  tiny  pieces. 

Lukashka  suddenly  clinched  his  fists  and  set  his  teeth. 

“ Why  must  I always  wait  and  wait?  Do  you  think  I 
donT  love  you  enough.  Do  what  you  like  with  me!^^  he 
exclaimed,  seizing  both  her  hands  in  a paroxysm  of  mingled 
rage  and  passion. 

Marianna  remained  perfectly  calm. 

“ DonT  rave,  Lukashka,  but  listen  to  me,^^  she  said, 
without  drawing  her  hands  from  his  grasp,  but  keeping 
the  Cossack  at  a distance;  “ I am  only  a young  girl,  but 
you  must  listen  to  me.  I am  not  my  own  mistress,  but  if 
you  love  me,  listen.  Let  go  my  hands.  I want  to  speak 
to  you.  I will  marry  you,  but  donT  expect  me  to  be 
guilty  of  any  foolishness  for  your  sake — never 

“You  will  marry  me.  Yes,  but  that  will  be  arranged 
without  any  action  on  our  part,  but  I want  you  to  love 
me,  Marianouchka,^^  said  Lucas,  suddenly  laying  aside  his 
ferocious  manner  and  becoming  gentle,  even  humble,  as 
he  gazed  at  the  maiden  with  a tender  smile. 

Marianna  suddenly  threw  her  arms  around  his  neck  and 
j)r(;ssed  a kiss  upon  his  lips. 

“ Jhother!^^  * she  whispered;  then  tearing  herself  from 
his  em})race,  slie  darted  into  the  court-yard  regardless  of 
tlie  entreaties  of  tlie  young  Cossack,  who  was  begging  her 

* J5rotljcr  and  cousin  are  words  of  endearment  among  this  tribe. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


57 


to  listen  to  him  a moment  longer.  Go  away;  some  one 
will  see  you!’^  she  exclaimed.  There^s  that  devil  of  a 
Eussian  walking  about  the  court-yard  now. 


CHAPTEE  XIV. 

Olenike  was  in  the  court-yard  when  Marianna  entered 
it,  and  heard  her  allusion  to  himself  distinctly.  He  had 
spent  the  evening  on  the  porch  in  company  with  Uncle 
Jerochka.  At  his  master request,  Vania  had  brought 
out  a table  and  placed  a tea-urn  and  lighted  candle  upon 
it,  and  Olenine  sipped  his  tea  and  smoked  his  cigar  there 
while  he  listened  to  the  stories  of  the  old  hunter,  who  sat 
on  the  steps  at  his  feet.  The  candle  flickered  in  spite  of 
the  stillness  of  the  air,  and  the  wavering  light  fell  now  on 
the  table  and  tea  service,  now  on  the  hoary  head  of  the  old 
Cossack.  Myriads  of  moths  flew  about,  scattering  the  dust 
from  their  wings,  beating  themselves  against  the  table  and 
glasses,  and  sometimes  dashing  recklessly  into  the  flame,  or 
suddenly  disappearing  in  the  darkness  outside  of  the  lumin- 
ous circle.  Olenine  and  Jerochka  emptied  five  bottles  of 
wine;  and  each  time  the  old  hunter  filled  his  glass  he 
touched  it  to  that  of  Olenine  and  drank  to  his  new  friend^s 
health  and  prosperity.  He  talked  incessantly,  describing 
the  mode  of  life  of  his  ancestors,  boasting  of  the  achieve- 
ments of  his  father,  who  could  shoulder  with  ease  a wild 
boar  weighing  three  hundred  and  fifty  pounds,  and  who 
had  once  drunk  two  gallons  of  wine  at  a sitting.  He 
talked,  too,  of  the  good  times  he  had  enjoyed  in  former 
years,  and  of  his  friend  Guirtchik,  and  how  they  had  once 
killed  two  noble  stags  in  one  morning.  He  talked  so  elo- 
quently, and  his  descriptions  were  so  graphic,  that  Olenine 
had  no  idea  how  rapidly  time  was  passing. 

, ^^Yes,  that  is  the  way  we  used  to  live!''^  he  exclaimed. 

It^s  a pity  that  you  could  not  have  made  my  acquaint- 
ance in  my  youth.  I^m.not  good  for  much  now;  but  I 


58 


THE  COSSACKS. 


was  a very  different  sort  of  a fellow  once.  Who  had  the 
finest  horse  and  the  finest  rifle?  Who  was  sent  into  the 
mountains  to  kill  Ahmed  Khan?  Who  was  considered  the 
pleasantest  companion  and  the  heaviest  drinker?  Jeroch- 
ka — always  Jerochka!  Who  was  the  favorite  of  the  wom- 
en? Jerochka.  There  are  no  such  Cossacks  nowadays. 
They  wear  boots  and  conduct  themselves  like  idiots  gener- 
ally. It  was  not  the  stations  alone  that  knew  me^  but  the 
mountains  as  well.  Some  princes  came  down  here;  they 
made  me  their  friend  and  companion.  With  Tartars  I was 
a Tartar;  with  Armenians  an  Armenian;  with  privates  a 
private;  with  officers  an  officer.  I made  no  distinction  be- 
tween them^  provided  they  drained  their  glasses  dry,  though 
I was  often  told  that  I ought  to  purify  myself  on  account 
of  my  intercourse  with  infidels,  and  that  I ought  not  to 
drink  with  a Eussian  soldier  or  eat  with  a Tartar. 

Who  told  you  that?^^ 

Our  priests.  On  the  other  hand,  a Tartar  cadi  calls  us 
infidel  dogs,  and  nothing  could  induce  him  to  eat  with  us. 
In  short,  every  man  has  his  creed;  and  in  my  opinion  every 
faith  is  good.  God  created  man  to  be  happy;  there  is  no 
sin  in  anything.  Take  an  animal,  for  example.  He  lives 
among  our  rushes  as  well  as  among  those  of  the  Tartars;  it 
is  home  to  him  wherever  he  happens  to  be;  he  takes  what 
God  gives  him.  And  our  priests  assure  us  that  we  shall 
burn  in  hell  for  doing  the  same.  I donH  believe  a word  of 
it,^^  he  added,  after  a mementos  reflection.  The  Circas- 
sians once  killed  a friend  of  mine,^^  he  continued,  a 
brave,  good-looking  fellow  like  myself.  He  used  to  say 
that  the  i)riests  invented  all  such  things.  ^ We  shall  all 
die,^  he  used  to  say,  ^ and  the  grass  will  grow  over  our 
graves;  and  that  is  all  there  is  about  it.^  Ho  was  a wild, 
reckless  sort  of  a fellow.^'' 

How  old  are  you?^^  asked  Olenine. 

God  only  knows.  About  sev^vjity,  probably.  I was  no 


THE  COSSACKS.  59 

child  when  the  czarina  reigned;  so  you  can  form  some 
idea.  Over  seventy^  I suppose. 

Yes;  but  you  are  still  hale  and  hearty.-’^ 

Yes^  God  be  thanked^  I am  well — very  well.  A wick- 
ed sorceress  has  cast  a spell  over  me^  though. 

^^What?^"  • 

Yes^  she  has  cast  a spell  over  me — 

So,  after  our  death  the  grass  will  grow  upon  our 
graves/^  repeated  Olenine,  thoughtfully. 

But  Jerochka  did  not  seem  inclined  to  explain  his  theories 
more  fully;  in  fact,  he  remained  silent  for  several  minutes. 

Well,  what  do  you  think  about  it?^^  he  exclaimed  at 
last,  smilingly.  Suppose  we  take  another  drink?^^  he 
added,  holding  out  his  glass. 


CHAPTER  XV. 

What  was  I talking  about  continued  Jerochka. 

Oh!  I know.  Well,  this  is  the  kind  of  a man  I am.  I^m 
a hunter.  My  equal  isn^t  to  be  found  among  the  Cossacks. 
I know  the  habits  of  every  known  beast  and  bird.  I have 
dogs,  two  carbines,  nets,  a falcon,  and  everything  I need, 
thank  God!  If  you  are  really  fond  of  hunting,  I will  show 
you  all  the  good  places.  I^'m  the  man  to  track  a wild  beast 
for  you.  I know  its  lair  and  its  drinking  places.  I put  up  a 
rough  hunting  lodge,  and  watch  there  all  night.  What  is 
the  use  of  staying  at  home?  One  is  sure  to  be  led  into 
temptation.  One  gets  drunk;  women  torment  one  half  to 
death  with  their  silly  gossip,  and  the  children  are  always 
quarreling  and  fighting.  How  much  more  pleasant  it  is  to 
get  up  before  sunrise  and  find  some  snug  little  place  in 
which  to  wait  for  your  prey.  You  can  see  all  that  is  going 
on  in  the  forest,  and  gaze  at  the  sky,  and  watch  the  stars 
come  out  and  try  to  guess  what  time  it  is.  You  hear  a 
crackling  among  the  bushes.  It  is  a wild  boar,  perhaps, 
approaching.  You  can  hear  the  shrill  cries  of  the  young 


60 


THE  COSSACKS. 


eagles  and  of  the  wild  geese^  and  the  crowing  of  the  cocks 
in  the  neighboring  village.  When  you  hear  the  geese  you 
may  know  that  it  is  not  midnight.  If  you  hear  the  sound 
of  a gun  in  the  distance  a thousand  fancies  assail  you.  I 
say  to  myself:  I wonder  who  fired  it?  Is  it  some  Cossack 
watching  for  his  prey,  like  myself?  Has  he  killed  the  beast 
or  only  wounded  it?  I can^t  bear  the  thought  of  the  poor 
thing  staining  the  reeds  with  his  blood.  ^ Fool,  fool!^  I 
say,  ^ why  do  you  torture  the  beast ?^  Or  I wonder  if  some 
Abrek  has  killed  a poor  Cossack.  One  day,  while  I was 
sitting  on  the  bank  of  the  river,  I saw  a cradle  fioat  by. 
One  side  was  broken  a little,  but  that  was  all.  Where 
could  it  have  come  from?  Some  devilish  soldiers  had 
probably  attacked  a Circassian  village,  carried  away  the 
women,  and  perhaps  killed  the  child.  Your  men  have  no 
hearts.  Suddenly  I hear  a loud  crackling  sound  in  the 
thicket.  ^ Come  on,  I am  ready  for  you!^  I say  to  myself. 
I remain  motionless,  though  my  heart  is  beating  like  a 
sledge-hammer.  This  spring  a whole  drove  came  rushing 
out  of  the  woods  not  far  from  me.  I said,  ^ In  the  name 
of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son,^  and  was  about  to  pull  the 
trigger  when  the  old  sow  suddenly  cried  to  her  little  ones: 
^ Look  out,  children,  there^s  a man  yonder!^  and  they  all 
rushed  back  like  mad  into  the  bushes.  I was  frantic  with 
rage. 

How  did  the  sow  explain  to  her  pigs  that  a man  was 
watching  them?^^  inquired  Olenine. 

You  donT  believe  me,  perhaps.  Do  you  think  that 
wild  animals  are  fools?  No;  a sow  is  much  more  intelli- 
gent til  an  a man,  even  if  she  is  only  a sow.  She  notices 
everything.  A man  crosses  her  track  without  even  being 
aware  of  it,  but  the  sow  scents  yours  out  directly.  It  is 
true  that  you  try  to  kill  licr,  and  that  she  thinks  only  of 
Jiving  and  of  roaming  about  the  forest.  You  have  your 
ain])ition  and  slui  lias  Jicrs.  She  is  only  a hog;  but  she  is 
no  worse  than  you  arc;  and  she  is  just  as  much  one  of  the 


THE  COSSACKS. 


61 


works  of  God  as  you  are.  A man  is  only  a poor  fool,  after 
all — only  a poor  fool!^^  repeated  the  old  hunter,  relapsing 
into  a reverie. 

Olenine,  too,  began  to  dream.  Descending  the  steps  and 
crossing  his  hands  behind  his  back,  he  began  to  walk  up 
and  down  the  yard. 

Shortly  afterward  Uncle  Jerochka  raised  his  head  and 
began  to  watch  a moth  that  was  hovering  about  the  flame. 

^^Fool,  fool!  what  are  you  about he  muttered.  He 
rose  and  drove  away  the  moth  with  his  brawny  hands. 
^^Youfll  get  burned  up,  you  idiot!  Get  away  from  here; 
there  is  plenty  of  room  in  the  world  for  you,^^  he  added, 
almost  tenderly,  and  with  his  big  Angers  he  tried  to  seize 
the  tiny  creature  by  its  wings  and  remove  it  to  a place  of 
safety.  You  Ye  killing  yourself,  poor  thing;  and  I feel 
sorry  for  you.^^ 

He  sat  there  a long  time  talking  to  himself  and  drinking, 
while  Olenine  remained  in  the  yard  below.  A sound  of 
subdued  voices  near  the  gate  at  last  attracted  the  latterY 
attention;  he  listened,  and  heard  a stifled  laugh,  a manY 
voice,  and.  the  sound  of  a kiss.  He  turned  and  walked 
toward  the  house  rather  noisily,  in  order  to  warn  the 
new-comers  of  his  presence.  A moment  afterward  the 
gate  creaked,  a Cossack  in  a dark  uniform  and  white  cap 
passed  down  the  street,  and  a tall  woman  with  her  head  en- 
veloped in  a white  handkerchief  walked  swiftly  past  Olen- 
ine. He  watched  her  until  she  reached  the  door  of  the 
cornetY  cottage,  then,  through  the  window,  he  saw  her  seat 
herself  on  a bench  and  remove  her  handkerchief.  Sudden- 
ly such  a sensation  of  utter  loneliness  seized  him  that  a 
thousand  vague  desires  and  an  almost  unconscious  jealousy 
took  possession  of  his  heart. 

One  by  one  the  lights  in  the  cottages  were  extinguished, 
and  a profound  stillness  settled  down  upon  the  scene.  The 
cattle,  the  fences,  the  roofs  of  the  houses,  and  the  slender 
plane-trees  all  seemed  to  be  sleeping  a quiet  and  profound 


62 


THE  COSSACKS. 


sleep.  The  croaking  of  the  frogs  in  a neighboring  marsh 
was  the  only  sound  audible.  The  stars  were  becoming  less 
numerous  in  the  east^  but  in  the  zenith  they  were  growing 
more  and  more  crowded  and  brilliant.  The  old  Cossack 
was  sleeping  soundly,  with  his  head  resting  on  his  hand. 
A cock  crowed  in  the  court-yard,  in  which  Olenine  was 
still  pacing  to  and  fro  absorbed  in  thought. 

The  sound  of  several  voices  singing  reached  his  ear,  and 
he  walked  to  the  fence  and  listened.  The  voices  were  all 
fresh  and  youthful,  and  high  above  them  all  rose  one,  clear 
and  strong,  overpowering  all  the  others. 

Do  you  know  who  that  is  singing?’^  asked  the  old 
hunter,  waking  from  his  slumber.  It  is  Lukashka.  He 
killed  an  Abrek  yesterday,  and  he  is  celebrating  the  event. 
As  if  it  were  anything  to  rejoice  over — fool  that  he  is!"'^ 

Did  you  ever  kill  any  one?^^  inquired  Olenine. 

The  old  hunter  raised  himself  suddenly . upon  both 
elbows,  and  put  his  face  close  to  that  of  his  companion. 
Why  the  devil  do  you  ask  me  that?^^  he  exclaimed. 

TJiat^s  a subject  that  should  not  be  talked  about.  It  is 
an  easy  matter  to  lose  one^s  soul — a very  easy  matter. 
Farewell,  father,  Tve  drunk  quite  enough.  Will  you  go 
hunting  with  me  to-morrow?^^ 

^^Yes.^^ 

Be  ready  early  then.^^ 

I shall  be  up  before  you  are,  I suspect. 

The  old  man  went  away.  The  singing  had  ceased;  but 
one  could  still  hear  footsteps  and  merry  talk.  After  a few 
moments  the  song  was  begun  again,  further  off,  and  this 
time  the  powerful  voice  of  Jerochka  mingled  with  the 
otliers.  What  a strange  people  and  what  a strange  life! 
thought  Olenine  with  a sigh  as  he  re-entered  the  house. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


63 


OHAPTEE  XVL 

Uncle  Jerochka  had  faithfully  performed  his  term  of 
military  service,  and  had  been  honorably  retired.  His  wife 
had  deserted  him  twenty  years  before,  after  embracing  the 
orthodox  faith,  and  had  afterward  married  a Eussian  ser- 
geant. He  had  no  children. 

He  spoke  the  truth  when  he  declared  that  he  had  once 
been  the  handsomest  man  at  the  station.  He  was  famous 
in  the  army  for  his  deeds  of  prowess,  and  he  was  responsi- 
ble for  the  death  of  more  than  one  Abrek  and  Eussian,  for 
he  had  haunted  the  mountain  passes  and  robbed  Eussians 
without  number,  and  had  twice  been  in  prison.  He  now 
spent  most  of  his  time  in  hunting  in  the  forest,  where  he 
lived  upon  bread  and  water  for  days  at  a time;  but  when 
he  returned  to  the  station  he  drank  from  morning  until 
night  to  make  up  for  it.  On  returning  home  from  Olen- 
ine^s  house  he  slept  a couple  of  hours;  but  on  waking  long 
before  daybreak,  he  remained  in  bed  thinking  about  the 
man  whose  acquaintance  he  had  just  made. 

The  guilelessness  of  his  new  friend  pleased  him — that  is  to 
say,  the  guilelessness  he  displayed  in  serving  out  his  wine  so 
lavishly;  besides,  he  had  taken  a strong  fancy  to  him  per- 
sonally. He  wondered  why  it  was  that  the  Eussians  were 
all  so  rich  and  ignorant,  in  spite  of  their  education.  He 
asked  himself  these  questions  over  and  over  again,  and  also 
what  personal  advantages  he  might  perhaps  derive  from  a 
friendship  with  Olenine. 

Jerochka^s  cottage  was  tolerably  large  and  still  new;  but 
a woman^s  presence  was  evidently  wanting.  For  in  spite 
of  the  Cossack’s  reputation  for  neatness,  the  house  was  un- 
tidy and  in  great  disorder.  On  the  table  lay  a caftan 
stained  with  blood,  the  remnant  of  a loaf  and  a jay  intend- 


64 


THE  COSSACKS. 


ed  for  the  falcon.  On  the  benches  were  old  shoes,  a gun, 
a dagger,  a bag  or  two,  some  wet  clothes,  and  several  piles 
of  rags,  while  in  one  corner  of  the  room  stood  a basin  of 
dirty  water,  in  which  some  bits  of  leather  were  soaking, 
and  a rifle  and  rest. 

On  the  floor  lay  a net  and  some  dead  pheasants,  and  un- 
der the  table,  fastened  to  it  by  one  leg,  was  a hen  pecking 
at  the  dirty  floor.  A broken  pot  filled  with  a milky  liquid 
stood  by  the  fireless  stove,  and  on  the  stove  itself  was 
perched  a falcon,  that  seemed  to  be  struggling  hard  to  free 
itself  from  the  cord  that  held  it.  Uncle  Jerochka  himself 
was  lying  upon  his  back  on  the  rather  diminutive  bed, 
which  stood  between  the  stove  apd  the  wall. 

Are  you  at  home,  uncle?^^  cried  a shrill  voice  outside 
the  window — a voice  the  old  hunter  instantly  recognized  as 
that  of  Lukashka. 

Yes,  yes;  come  in,  neighbor  Marka.  Are  you  on  your 
way  back  to  the  outpost 

The  old  Cossack  was  very  fond  of  Lukashka;  indeed,  he 
was  the  only  member  of  the  rising  generation  for  whom 
he  did  not  evince  a profound  contempt.  Lukashka  and 
his  mother,  who  were  near  neighbors  to  the  old  man,  fre- 
quently brought  him  wine,  curds  and  other  delicacies  of  a 
similar  kind.  Jerochka,  who  was  in  the  habit  of  speaking 
his  mind  freely  upon  all  occasions,  explained  the  kindness 
of  his  neighbors  in  an  eminently  practical  way.  I give 
them  pheasants  and  wild  boar  meat,^^  he, remarked,  and 
they,  in  return,  keep  me  in  pies  and  cake.^^ 

Good-day,  Marka;  I^m  glad  to  see  you,^^  cried  the  old 
liunter,  gayly.  Are  you  going  back  now?’^ 

‘‘  No,  I came  to  bring  the  wine  I promised  you.^^ 

May  Christ  save  you!^^  cried  the  old  man,  devoutly,  as 
he  gatliercd  togctlier  his  scattered  garments  and  began  to 
dress  liimself.  After  j)utting  on  his  clothing  and  confining 
it  about  the  waist  witli  a leather  belt,  lie  jioured  some  water 
on  his  hands,  wi])ed  them  on  an  old  ])air  of  pantaloons. 


THE  COSSACKS.  65 

smoothed  his  hair  and  heard  with  a bit  of  comb^  and  then 
came  and  seated  himself  in  front  of  Lukashka. 

Fm  ready  said  he. 

Lukashka  got  a glass^  wiped  it^  filled  it^  and  then  sit- 
ting down  on  a bench,  presented  it  to  his  host. 

To  your  good  health!  In  the  name  of  the  Father,  and 
of  the  Son!^^  said  the  old  man,  solemnly  accepting  the  gob- 
let. May  you  obtain  your  heart’s  desire.  May  you 
always  be  a brave  man  and  receive  the  cross. 

Lukashka  also  repeated  a prayer  before  he  drunk.  The 
old  man  then  went  and  got  a dried  fish,  placed  it  on  the 
threshold,  where  he  pounded  it  with  a stick  to  make  it  ten- 
der, after  which  he  placed  it  on  the  only  china  plate  he 
possessed,  and  set  it  on  the  table. 

I have  all  I need,  thank  God!^^  he  said,  proudly. 

Well,  what  is  Mosef  up  to  now?^^ 

Lukashka  told  him  of  the  corporaFs  appropriation  of  the 
rifie,  and  asked  the  old  hunter^s  advice. 

Let  him  keep  it,^^  said  Jerochka;  if  you  donT  make 
him  a present  of  it  you  wonT  get  the  reward. 

As  for  that,  uncle,  they  say  Fm  not  entitled  to  it,  be- 
cause I^m  still  a minor,*  and  it  is  a fine  Crimean  rifie, 
worth  eighty  rubles.''^ 

Oh,  well,  think  no  more  about  it.  I had  just  such  a 
quarrel  once  with  my  superior  officer  about  a horse  he 
wanted  to  take  from  me.  ^ Give  me  the  horse,  ^ he  said, 
^ and  you  shall  be  promoted.  ^ I refused,  and  that  was  the 
end  of  me. 

But  what  am  I to  do,  uncle?  I must  have  a horse, 
and  they  say  I canT  get  one  on  the  other  side  of  the  river 
for  less  than  fifty  rubles,  and  mother  hasnT  sold  her  wine 
yet.^^ 

Pshaw!  that  neednT  trouble  you.  When  I was  your 

* Those  who  have  never  served  on  horseback  in  the  ranks  are 
called  minors  by  the  Cossacks. 


66 


THE  COSSACKS. 


age  I had  stolen  whole  herds  of  them  and  driven  them 
across  the  river.  More  than  once  I\e  sold  a fine  horse 
for  a gallon  of  brandy  or  a sheep-skin  coat. 

But  why  did  you  sell  them  so  cheap 
I couldn^t  help  it,  you  simpleton;  besides,  wlien  the 
goods  are  stolen  one  can  afford  to  be  generous.  As  for 
you,  you  know  where  to  get  hold  of  a horse  probably. 
Why  don^t  you  answei^?^^ 

Times  have  changed  since  then,  uncle. 

Times  have  changed repeated  the  old  hunter,  scorn- 
fully. Say  rather  that  men  have  changed.  I was  cer- 
tainly very  different  at  your  age.^^ 

But  what  is  one  to  do?’^ 

The  old  hunter  sniffed  contemptuously. 

Uncle  Jerochka  was  brave  and  generous,  so  all  the 
Circassians  were  my  friends,  he  replied.  When  one  of 
them  came  to  my  house  I gave  him  plenty  to  drink  and 
gave  up  my  bed  to  him.  When  I went  to  see  him  I always 
carried  him  a present.  That  is  the  way  to  live,  and  not  as 
people  live  now.  Young  men  nowadays  amuse  themselves 
by  crunching  sunflower  seeds  and  spitting  out  the  hulls,^^ 
concluded  the  old  man,  imitating  the  movements  of  those 
thus  engaged. 

You  are  right,  uncle. 

Do  you  want  to  be  of  any  account?  If  you  do,  be  a 
jig  it  and  not  a peasant.  It  doesnT  show  any  smartness 
to  buy  a horse;  pay  the  money  for  him  and  take  him 
away. 

They  were  both  silent  for  several  minutes. 

‘‘You  have  no  idea  how  dull  it  is  at  the  outpost  and  at 
the  station,  remarked  Lukashka,  at  last.  “ They  are  all 
timid  from  Nazarka  down.  Not  long  ago  Guirei-Khan 
wanted  us  to  go  and  drive  off  some  horses  from  the  Circas- 
sians, and  not  a person  would  consent  to  go.  Of  course  I 
couldnT  go  alone. 

“ You^vo  forgotten  mo.  Do  you  think  your  old  uncle 


THE  COSSACKS.  67 

has  dried  up  and  blown  away?  No^  I still  live.  Get  me  a 
horse  and  1^11  start  off  at  once. 

That^'s  all  nonsense/"^  retorted  Lukashka.  Tell  me 
what  I had  better  do  about  Guirei-Khan.  He  promised 
to  find  a place  to  hide  the  horses  if  I would  get  them  as  far 
as  the  Terek^  but  I^m  not  sure  that  I can  trust  him. 

Oh,  you  need  feel  no  anxiety  about  that.  He  comes  of 
a good  family;  his  father  was  a trusted  friend  of  mine. 
Make  him  take. an  oath,  and  then  you  can  believe  him, 
though  when  you  start  off  with  him  you  had  better  have 
your  pistol  near  at  hand.  Above  all,  be  on  your  guard 
when  you  divide  the  horses.  A Circassian  came  within  an 
ace  of  killing  me  one  day  because  I asked  him  ten  rubles 
for  a horse.  Yes,  you  can  trust  the  fellow,  but  have  your 
weapons  within  your  reach,  even  when  you  are  asleep. 
Lukashka  listened  attentively. 

Is  it  true  that  you  have  a magical  herb?^^  he  asked, 
after  a moment^s  silence. 

No,  it  isn^t;  but  1^11  tell  you  where  to  find  one,  be- 
cause you  are  a good  fellow  and  kind  to  your  old  uncle. 
Go  find  a tortoise^s  nest,  and  then  make  a little  fence 
around  it,  so  the  tortoise  can^t  get  out.  It  will  go  round 
and  round  in  a circle  and  search  for  the  magic  herb  to 
break  down  the  fence.  The  next  morning  early  go  and 
look  for  the  gap  in  the  fence,  and  there  you  will  find  the 
herb.  Take  it  and  keep  it  about  you,  and  all  will  be  well 
with  you. 

Did  you  ever  try  it?^^ 

No,  but  plenty  of  people  have.  I never  had  any  other 
charm  than  a ^ Hail  ^ when  I mounted  my  horse. 

What  do  you  mean?^‘ 

Did  you  never  hear  of  that?  Oh,  these  people  nowa- 
days! You  do  well  to  consult  me.  Listen  and  repeat  the 
words  after  me.'^^ 

The  exorcism  began  with: 


68 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Hail  thou  who  dwellest  in  Zion — The  rest  was  un- 
translatable. 

Lukashka  began  to  laugh. 

‘‘Was  that  the  reason  you  were  never  killed^  or  was  it 
only  your  good  luck?^^  he  asked. 

“ Oh^  you  young  men  of  the  present  day  all  think  your- 
selves so  wise!  Learn  the  words  and  repeat  them;  you 
wonT  be  any  the  worse  for  it.  You  had  better  keep  away 
from  the  Nogais,  though^  Luka.^^ 

“ Why?^^ 

“ Because  times  have  changed,  and  you  are  all  a set  of 
cowards.  Look  at  the  crowd  of  Eussians  they  have  quar- 
tered upon  us.  They  would  arrest  you  and  try  you,  I sup- 
pose. Let  the  matter  alone.  You  are  not  equal  to  it.  It 
was  very  different  when  I went  with  Guirtchek — 

Evidently  the  old  man  was  about  to  begin  one  of  his  in- 
terminable stories.  Lukashka  glanced  out  of  the  window. 

“ It  is  broad  daylight  now,  uncle,  and  time  for  me  to  be 
going,^^  he  said,  hastily.  “ Come  and  see  me  soon.'’^ 

“ Christ  preserve  you!  I must  go  over  to  the  officer's 
now.  I promised  to  take  him  hunting  to-day;  he  seems  to 
be  a very  nice  sort  of  a fellow. 


CHAPTEE  XVII. 

As  Lukashka  wended  his  way  homeward  a thick  mist 
rose  from  the  ground,  enveloping  the  whole  village.  Cocks 
were  crowing  lustily  on  every  side,  and  the  cattle  were 
already  making  their  way  toward  the  plain.  It  was  not 
until  he  had  nearly  reached  his  gate  that  the  fence  and  the 
cottage-porch  became  visible.  His  mother  was  up  and  en- 
gaged in  making  a fire.  His  younger  sister  was  still  asleep 
in  bed. 

“ Well,  have  you  got  enough  of  it?^^  asked  his  mother, 
“ Where  did  you  spend  the  night 


THE  COSSACKS.  69 

In  the  village/^  replied  her  son,  rather  ungraciously, 
picking  up  his  rifle  and  examining  it. 

His  mother  shook  her  head. 

asked  you  to  mend  my  game-bag;  have  you  done 

it?” 

Your  sister  mended  it  last  night.  Are  you  going  back 
to  the  outpost  already?  I have  scarcely  seen  you. 

I must  get  off  as  soon  as  I can.  Where  is  Stepka?^^ 

She^s  cutting  wood,  I think.  She  misses  you  dread- 
fully. ^ I shall  never  see  liim  again  she  is  always  saying, 
in  her  way,  you  know.  Ifll  call  her.  She  understood  all 
about  the  Abrek. 

Yes,  call  her. 

The  old  woman  went  out,  and  in  a few  minutes  Stepka 
entered.  She  was  six  years  older  than  her  brother,  and 
deaf  and  dumb.  The  resemblance  between  them  would 
have  been  striking  but  for  the  dull  and  stolid  expression 
peculiar  to  deaf  mutes.  She  wore  a coarse  blue  gown,  her 
feet  were  bare  and  dirty,  and  her  head  was  covered  with  an 
old  blue  handkerchief.  Her  neck,  hands  and  face  were  as 
coarse  as  those  of  a peasant,  and  her  clothing  and  whole 
appearance  testified  to  the  hard  labor  she  was  accustomed 
to  perform.  She  brought  in  an  armful  of  wood  and  put 
it  in  the  stove;  then  she  went  up  to  her  brother  with  a 
joyous  smile  on  her  face,  and  tapping  him  lightly  on  the 
shoulder  she  began  to  make  signs  to  him  with  her  hands, 
and  indeed  with  her  whole  body. 

‘ ^ All  right,  all  right,  Stepka,  replied  Lukashka,  with 
a nod.  You  have  mended  everything  up  nicely.  You^re 
a good  girl,  and  here  is  something  for  you,^^  he  added, 
drawing  a couple  of  ginger-cakes  from  his  pocket. 

The  face  of  the  dumb  girl  crimsoned  with  joy.  She 
seized  the  ginger-cakes,  and  began  to  make  even  more  rapid 
signs,  passing  her  coarse  fingers  over  her  eyebrows  and 
face.  Lukashka  understood  her,  and  nodded  and  smiled. 
She  was  telling  him  that  he  ought  to  give  such  dainties  to 


70 


THE  COSSACKS. 


the  young  girls^  that  Marianka  was  the  prettiest  of  them 
all^  and  that  she  loved  Lukashka.  She  indicated  Marianka 
by  pointing  to  her  cottage,  and  passing  her  hands  over  her 
forehead  and  face.  Marianka^  s affection  was  indicated  by 
pressing  her  hands  on  her  heart,  kissing  her  hand,  and 
pretending  to  embrace  some  one.  The  mother  re-entered 
the  house,  and  seeing  what  was  going  on,  smiled  and 
nodded. 

I spoke  to  Oulita  the  other  day,^^  she  remarked,  and 
she  seemed  to  think  favorably  of  it. 

Lukashka  made  no  reply. 

I must  have  a horse,  mother, he  said,  after  a little, 
so  you  had  better  sell  the  wine.'’^ 

ITl  send  the  wine  to  market  when  the  proper  time 
comes, said  the  mother,  evidently  not  desirous  that  her 
son  should  meddle  with  the  affairs  of  the  household. 

When  you  go,  take  the  little  bag  that  you  see  on  the 
porch.  I have  put  something  in  it  for  you.^^ 

^ Very  well,  and  if  Guieri-Khan  should  come  here  to  see 
me,  send  him  to  the  outpost,  for  I sha^nT  be  able  to  get 
off  again  for  a long  time,  and  I want  to  see  him  on  busi- 
ness. 

I will,  Luka,  I will.  Did  you  spend  the  night  at 
Yamka^s.  I got  up  to  see  about  the  cattle,  and  thought  I 
heard  you  singing. 

Lukashka  took  no  notice  of  the  question,  but  stepped  out 
on  the  porch,  slung  his  game  -bag  over  his  shoulder,  and 
picked  up  his  coat  and  rifle;  then  he  came  back  to  the 
door-way. 

‘‘ (iood-bye,  mother, said  he;  serui  me  a small  cask 
of  wine  by  Kazarka.  I have  promised  it  to  the  boys. 

May  CJirisfc  watch  over  you,  Lukashka!  God  be  with 
you!  I will  send  you  the  wine,^^  said  the  old  woman,  fol- 
lowing him  to  the  gate;  but  listen  to  me  a minute. 

'^riie  Cossack  paused. 

You  have  been  amusing  yourself  here,  thank  God!  A 


THE  COSSACKS. 


n 


young  man  must  enjoy  himself  a little.  That  is  all  right, 
but,  my  son,  you  must  take  care  and  not  carry  it  too  far. 
Above  all  things,  you  must  be  respectful  to  your  superior 
officers.  As  for  the  wine,  I will  sell  it,  and  you  shall 
have  your  horse  and  marry  the  young  girl.^^ 

Very  well,  very  well,^^  replied  the  young  man,  knit- 
ting his  brow.  ^ 

The  dumb  girl  uttered  a cry  to  attract  his  attention, 
then  pointed  to  her  head  and  then  to  her  hand,  thus  signi- 
fying Bi  shaven  head,  or  the  head  of  a Circassian;  then  she 
pretended  to  load  and  fire  off  a rifle,  which  pantomime 
meant  that  she  hoped  Lukashka  would  soon  kill  another 
Abrek. 

Her  brother  understood  her  and  smiled  in  response, 
then  protecting  his  rifle  with  his  sheep-skin  coat,  he  walked 
briskly  away,  and  was  soon  lost  to  view  in  the  dense  morn- 
ing  fog. 


CHAPTEE  XVIIL 

Immediately  after  his  guest^s  departure  Uncle  Jerochka 
whistled  to  his  dogs,  jumped  over  the  fence  and  made  his 
way  through  the  back  streets  to  Olenine^s  cottage,  for  he 
was  always  particular  to  avoid  any  meeting  with  women 
when  he  went  hunting.  Olenine  was  still  asleep,  and 
Vania,  though  awake,  was  still  in  bed,  wondering  whether 
it  was  time  to  get  up  or  not,  when  Jerochka,  with  his  gun 
on  his  shoulder,  and  in  full  hunting  array,  opened  the 
door. 

The  Abreks  are  upon  us!^^  he  shouted.  Sound  the 
alarm.  Ivan,  make  your  master^s  tea  at  once.  Come, 
come,  get  up,^^  he  continued,  addressing  Olenine.  The 
girls  are  all  up  and  going  for  water,  and  you  still  in  bed!^^ 

Olenine  sprang  up.  The  sight  of  the  old  Cossack  and 
the  sound  of  his  voice  were  both  cheering  and  inspiring. 

Make  haste,  Vania,  make  haste,  he  cried,  gayly. 


72 


THE  COSSACKS. 


So  this  is  the  way  you  go  hunting.  Honest  people 
have  finished  breakfast^  and  you  are  still  in  bed.  Lion! 
here^  where  are  you  going?  Is  your  gun  in  order?^^ 

“ I ought  to  be  ashamed  of  myself,  I admit/ ^ said 
Olenine. 

Yes,  you  must  be  fined. 

“ Voulez  voxifUu  the  asked  Vania,  smiling. 

What  deviks  jargon  are  you  talking?^^  shouted  the  old 
man,  laughing  until  he  showed  every  tooth  in  his  head. 

A first  offense  should  be  forgiven,  said  Olenine,  good- 
naturedly. 

‘‘Oh!  1^11  overlook  it  this  time,  but  if  you  sin  again  in 
the  same  way  you  are  to  give  me  a gallon  of  wine.  You 
must  remember  that  you  have  no  chance  of  finding  a stag 
as  soon  as  it  gets  warm.'''' 

“ And  even  if  we  should  find  one,  he  is  cleverer  than  we 
are,  and  so  will  be  sure  to  escape  us,"^  said  Olenine,  repeat- 
ing the  old  man^s  words  of  the  night  before. 

“ You're  poking  fun  at  me.  All  right;  wait  until  you 
kill  a stag  before  you  begin  to  talk.  But  look!  here's  your 
landlord  coming  to  see  you,'-'  said  Jerochka,  glancing  out  of 
the  window.  “How  fine  he  is!  He  has  put  on  a new 
coat,  so  you  can  see  that  he  is  an  official. 

The  words  had  hardly  fallen  from  the  old  hunter's  lips 
when  Vania  ushered  the  visitor  into  the  room.  He  was 
gorgeous  to  behold  in  his  new  uniform  coat,  adorned  with 
an  officer's  shoulder  straps,  and  his  carefully  polished  boots 
— a marvel,  indeed,  in  the  Cossack  world. 

Ilea  Vassilitch  was  an  educated  Cossack.  He  had  visited 
Itussia,  and  he  desired  above  all  else  to  appear  the  gentle- 
man; but  beneath  his  affectation  and  assurance  the  same 
coarse  Cossack  nature,  so  forcibly  represented  in  Uncle 
Jerochka,  was  plainly  visible.  It  showed  itself  unmistaka- 
bly in  liis  sunbiirTicd  face,  his  hands  and  his  red  nose. 
Olenine  invited  him  to  be  seated. 

“ Good-day,  father;  good-day.  Ilea  Vassilitch,"  said 


X 


THE  COSSACKS.  73 

Jerochka,  rising  and  bowing  profoundly,  though  with  a 
slightly  ironical  air,  as  it  seemed  to  Olenine. 

Good-day,  uncle.  Are  you  here  already  replied  the 
cornet,  with  a careless  nod. 

The  new-comer  was  about  forty  years  of  age,  tall  and 
slim,  and  remarkably  youthful  in  appearance  for  a person 
of  his  age.  It  was  evident  that  he  felt  considerable  fear 
lest  his  new  lodger  should  mistake  him  for  a common  Cos- 
sack, and  that  he  was  desirous  of  impressing  him  with  his 
importance  at  once. 

This  is  our  Mmrod,^^  he  continued,  complacently, 
pointing  to  Jerochka,  a hunter  famous  throughout  the 
length  and  breadth  of  the  land.  You  have  made  his  ac- 
quaintance already,  I see.^^ 

Yes,  we  are  about  to  start  out  on  a hunt  together. 

Indeed!  Well,  I have  a little  business  matter  to  ar- 
range with  you.^^ 

I am  entirely  at  your  service. 

You  are  a nobleman,  I understand, began  the  cornet; 

and  as  I am  an  officer,  we  can  discuss  the  matter  as  two 
gentlemen  should.  If  you  desire  my  consent  to  the  lease — 
for  my  wife  is  very  obtuse,  like  all  women  of  her  class,  and 
did  not  exactly  understand  you  the  other  day — I must  in- 
form you  that  the  adjutant  is  willing  and  even  anxious  to 
lease  this  cottage  of  me  for  six  rubles  a month,  without  the 
stable.  I am  an  officer,  and  as  such  I now  state  my  terms 
to  you.^^ 

He  talks  well,^^  muttered  the  old  hunter  in  an  audible 
aside. 

The  cornet  continued  to  talk  some  time  longer  in  the 
same  style,  and  Olenine  finally  managed  to  understand, 
though  not  without  considerable  difficulty,  that  he  wanted 
six  rubles  a month  for  his  cottage.  This  he  very  willingly 
consented  to  give,  and  offered  his  landlord  a cup  of  tea. 

By  reason  of  our  absurd  prejudice  it  would  be  con- 
sidered a sin  for  us  to  use  a glass  that  does  not  belong  to 


74 


THE  COSSACKS. 


us/^  he  replied.  Thanks  to  my  education,  I am  above 
such  prejudices,  but  my  wife,  with  the  weakness  of  her 
sex — 

Will  you  not  take  some  tea?^^ 

With  pleasure,  if  you  will  allow  me  to  send  for  my 
own  glass,  responded  the  cornet,  and  stepping  out  on  the 
porch:  Bring  me  a glass, he  cried,  loudly. 

In  a few  minutes  the  door  was  opened  a little  way,  and 
the  end  of  a pink  sleeve  and  a sunburned  hand  passed  in  a 
glass  which  Olenine  filled,  and  then  returned  to  his  land- 
lord. 

I wouldnT  detain  you  for  the  world,  said  the  cornet, 
gulping  down  his  hot  tea  and  burning  himself  badly.  I 
have  a passion  for  fishing,  and  I am  at  home  only  for  a 
short  time,  for  a vacation,  so  to  speak,  so  I am  going  to  try 
my  luck  and  see  if  I can  not  get  my  share  of  the  gifts  of 
the  Terek.  I trust,  however,  that  you  “will  some  day  do 
me  the  honor  to  come  and  take  a glass  of  ancestral  wine 
with  me  in  accordance  with  the  customs  of  our  village. 

The  cornet  bowed,  shook  hands  with  Olenine  and  de- 
parted. While  Olenine  was  completing  his  preparations  he 
heard  the  athoritative  voice  of  the  cornet  issuing  his  orders, 
and  shortly  afterward  saw  him  pass  the  window  in  a ragged 
coat,  with  his  fishing  net  on  his  shoulder,  and  with  his 
trousers  rolled  up  above  his  knees. 

What  a scoundrel  exclaimed  Jerochka,  finishing  his 
glass.  ‘^Are  you  really  going  to  give  him  six  rubles? 
Such  a thing  was  never  heard  of.  One  can  rent  the  best 
cottage  in  the  village  for  two  rubles.  The  wretch!  Why, 
Til  lease  you  mine  for  three  rubles. 

No,  I would  rather  remain  here.^^ 

“ Six  rubles!  why  that  is  positively  throwing  money  to 
the  dogs.  Here,  Ivan,  bring  in  some  wine.^^ 

It  was  nearly  eiglit  o^clock  when  Olenine  and  the  old 
man  started.  Directly  in  front  of  the  gate  stood  an  ox- 
cart, and  Marianna,  with  her  face  covered  up  to  her  eyes 


THE  COSSACKS.  75 

with  a white  handkerchief^  and  with  a long  stick  in  her 
hand,  was  acting  as  driver. 

Good-morning,  my  darling,  exclaimed  Jerochka,  pre- 
tending that  he  was  about  to  hug  her. 

Marianna  threatened  him  with  her  switch,  and  favored 
both  men  with  a long,  mischievous  glance  out  of  her  beau- 
tiful, laughing  eyes. 

Come  on,^^  cried  Olenine,  throwing  his  gun  across  his 
shoulder,  and  feeling  pleasantly  conscious  of  the  girks  gaze. 

^^Gee!  gee  resounded  Marianna^'s  voice  behind  them, 
followed  by  the  creaking  of  the  cart  as  it  began  to  move. 
As  they  walked  on  Jerochka  talked  almost  incessantly 
about  the  cornet,  whom  he  abused  roundly. 

Why  do  you  dislike  him  so  much?^^  inquired  Olenine. 

Because  he  is  so  stingy.  I can^t  bear  meanness;  be- 
sides, what  is  he  hoarding  up  his  money  for?  He  can^t 
carry  it  away  with  him.  He  has  two  houses,  and  he  has 
cheated  his  brother  out  of  a fine  vineyard.  As  for  writing 
documents  and  the  like,  you  never  saw  his  equal.  They 
even  come  here  from  other  stations  to  get  him  to  do  such 
work  for  them,  he  is  so  clever  at  it.  And  for  whom  is  he 
hoarding  all  this  up,  I say?  He  has  only  one  little  boy  and 
a girl  who  will  soon  marry,  probably,  and  that  is  all.'’^ 

Perhaps  he  wishes  to  save  up  a dowry  for  his  daughter. 

A dowry?  Any  one  would  be  glad  to  get  her  without 
a dowry.  She^s  a beautiful  girl,  but  the  scamp  would  like 
to  marry  her  to  a rich  man.  Lukashka,  my  neighbor  and 
nephew,  a fine  fellow,  the  one  that  killed  the  Abrek  the 
other  day,  has  been  anxious  to  marry  her  for  a long  time, 
but  her  father  refuses,  sometimes  upon  one  plea,  some- 
times upon  another.  The  girl  is  too  young,  he  says;  but  I 
know  what  he  is  after.  Luka  will  get  her  though,  sooner 
or  later.  He  is  the  smartest  Cossack  in  the  village.  He 
has  just  killed  an  Abrek,  and  he  will  get  the  cross. 

Who  was  it  I saw  kissing  the  girl  last  evening  when  I 
was  in  the  yard?^^ 


76 


THE  COSSACKS. 


You  cried  the  old  man^  pausing. 

I swear  that  I am  not. 

Women  are  the  very  devil  and  no  mistake/^  said 
Jerochka,  dubiously.  What  kind  of  a looking  fellow 
was  it?^^ 

I didn^t  see  him  very  distinctly. 

What  kind  of  a cap  did  he  have  on — a white  one?^^ 
^^Yes.^^ 

And  a red  coat?  Was  he  about  your  height?^^ 

^^No,  taller. 

Then  it  was  he/’  and  Jerochka  burst  into  a hearty 
laugh.  It  was  my  Marka,  that  is  to  say,  Lukashka.  I 
call  him  Marka  just  for  fun.  Well,  that^s  a good  joke.  I 
was  much  the  same  sort  of  a fellow  years  ago.  It  isn^t  at 
all  worth  while  for  parents  to  give  themselves  so  much 
trouble  about  their  daughters.  It  happened  once  that  my 
sweetheart  was  sleeping  in  a room  with  her  mother  and 
sister-in-law,  but  in  spite  of  that  I succeeded  in  reaching 
her.  The  mother  was  a regular  old  witch  and  hated  me 
like  poison.  I came  under  my  sweetheart^s  window  with 
my  friend  Guirtchek.  I climbed  upon  his  shoulders,  raised 
the  window  and  tapped.  She  was  sleeping  on  a bench  near 
the  window.  She  didnT  know  me,  and  she  shrieked  out: 
‘ Who  is  it?""  I didn^’t  dare  to  speak,  so  I took  off  my  cap 
and  covered  her  mouth  with  it.  She  recognized  me  then, 
and  came  out  to  join  me,  and  brought  me  curds  and 
grapes,  and  all  sorts  of  nice  things.  Nor  was  she  the  only 
one,^^  added  Jerochka.  Oh!  what  a life  that  was!^^ 

And  now?^^ 

Oh,  all  I do  now  is  to  follow  the  dogs,  watch  a pheas- 
ant from  behind  a tree,  and  fire  at  it.^^ 

‘‘You  ought  to  try  your  luck  with  Marianna. 

“ Look  at  that  dog.  Heffl  show  you  something  before 
evening,  said  the  old  man,  pointing  to  his  favorite.  Lion. 
They  were  both  silent  for  a while. 

After  they  had  walked  about  a hundred  yards  the  old 


THE  COSSACKS.  77 

man  stopped  in  front  of  a branch  that  had  fallen  across 
the  road. 

Do  you  see  that?^^  he  asked.  Do  you  suppose  that 
fell  there  by  chance?  No,  there^s  some  witchcraft  about 
it.  You  smile,  but  remember  this:  when  you  see  a stick 
lying  across  the  road  never  step  over  it,  but  either  go 
round  it  or  pick  it  up,  and  throw  it  to  one  side,  saying: 
^ In  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Spirit. ""  Then  continue  on  your  way,  and  no  misfor- 
tune will  befall  you.  My  father  taught  me  that.^^ 

^^What  nonsense  cried  Olenine,  gayly.  ^^We  had 
better  talk  about  Marianka.  Is  Lukashka  really  courting 
her?^^ 

Hush,  be  quiet  now.  We  had  better  take  a short  cut 
through  the  forest  here. 

And  the  old  man  stepped  lightly  and  stealthily  into  a 
path  leading  into  the  wood,  turning  from  time  to  time  to 
scowl  at  Olenine,  who  was  making  a good  deal  of  noise 
with  his  heavy  boots  and  hitting  his  gun  against  the 
branches  that  obstructed  the  way. 

Be  more  careful,  soldier said  the  old  hunter,  sternly. 

The  sun  was  now  high  in  the  heavens,  and  the  fog, 
though  fast  disappearing,  still  concealed  the  tops  of  the 
trees,  which  seemed  to  be  of  fabulous  height.  With  each 
step  there  was  a change  in  the  aspect  of  the  path:  that 
which  had  appeared  to  be  a tree  when  seen  from  a distance 
proving  to  be  only  a bush,  while  a slender  reed  sometimes 
looked  as  tall  as  a sapling. 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

Smoke  was  ascending  from  all  the  chimneys,  and  the 
people  of  the  village  were  on  their  way — some  to  the  river, 
some  to  their  daily  labor,  and  some  to  the  outpost,  as  the 
two  sportsmen  trudged  along  the  grass-grown  path,  the 


78 


THE  COSSACKS. 


dogs  wagging  their  tails  joyfully  as  they  ran  on  in  advance 
of  their  masters. 

Myriads  of  gnats  filled  the  air,  pursuing  the  hunters  and 
covering  their  backs,  hands  and  faces.  Olenine  kept  look- 
ing back  at  the  ox-cart  and  at  Marianna  urging  the  oxen 
on  with  her  switch.  A marvelous  quiet  reigned  over  the 
scene.  The  noises  from  the  village  had  grown  fainter  and 
fainter,  and  the  only  sound  that  now  broke  the  stillness 
was  the  snapping  of  the  reeds  as  the  dogs  bounded  through 
them  or  the  occasional  cry  of  a bird.  Olenine  knew  that 
the  forest  was  not  a safe  place,  as  there  were  Abreks  in  the 
neighborhood,  but  he  felt  no  fear.  lie  only  felt  that  al- 
most any  other  person  would  be  afraid  under  the  same 
circumstances.  With  every  nerve  on  the  alert,  he  listened 
for  the  slightest  sound,  kept  his  rifie  in  constant  readiness, 
and  experienced  a sensation  that  was  both  agreeable  and 
novel  to  him.  Uncle  Jerochka  walked  in  advance  of  him, 
pausing  to  examine  each  pool  and  to  point  out  the  tracks 
of  each  wild  animal  to  Olenine.  He  talked  very  little, 
however,  only  making  an  occasional  remark  to  his  com- 
panion in  a whisper.  The  path  they  were  following  had 
been  made  by  an  ox-cart  originally,  but  it  had  long  since 
become  overgrown  with  grass.  Elms  and  plane-trees  bor- 
dered so  thickly  on  each  side  that  it  was  impossible  for  the 
eye  to  penetrate  the  dense  foliage,  especially  as  nearly  all 
the  trees  were  enveloped  from  top  to  bottom  in  luxuriant 
vines.  The  richness  of  this  vegetation  struck  Olenine 
forcibly  at  every  step,  and  the  lonely  forest,  the  feeling  of 
danger,  the  old  Cossack  with  his  mysterious  whispering,  the 
beauty  and  untutored  grace  of  Marianna,  and  the  distant 
mountains,  all  seemed  to  Olenine  a sort  of  a dream. 

‘‘A  pheasant whispered  the  old  hunter,  pulling  his 
cap  down  over  his  eyes.  Cover  your  face;  it^s  a pheas- 
ant 

As  lie  sj)oke  he  dropped  down  upon  all  fours,  and  an  in- 
stant after  a report  like  that  of  a cannon  resomided  from 


THE  COSSACKS. 


79 


his  huge  rifle.  The  pheasant  made  a sudden  movement  as 
if  about  to  take  flighty  but  fell  to  the  ground.  As  Olenine 
walked  toward  his  companion  he  started  a second  bird, 
which  darted  off  through  the  air  with  the  rapidity  of  light- 
ning. Eaising  his  gun,  Olenine  took  aim  and  flred.  The 
pheasant  fell  like  a stone,  catching  in  the  brambles. 

Bravo  cried  the  old  hunter,  who  did  not  know  how 
to  hit  a bird  on  the  wing. 

They  pickejd  up  the  birds  and  continued  on  their  way, 
and  Olenine,  excited  by  the  novelty  of  the  scene  and  his 
own  success,  .did  his  best  to  keep  up  a continuous  conversa- 
tion with  his  companion. 

Wait  a moment,  said  Uncle  Jerochka.  I saw  some 
deer-tracks  here  yesterday. 

They  turned  into  the  forest,  and  after  proceeding  about 
three  hundred  yards,  came  to  a clearing,  in  which  there 
were  several  large  pools  of  water.  Olenine  was  about 
twenty  yards  behind  his  companion  when  the  latter  paused, 
stooped  down,  and  began  to  make  mysterious  signs  to  him. 
Olenine  quickened  his  pace,  and  on  reaching  Uncle  Jeroch- 
ka^s  side,  perceived  the  imprint  of  human  feet. 

Do  you  see  that?^^  asked  the  old  man. 

‘^Yes.  What  of  it  responded  Olenine,  forcing  him- 
self to  appear  calm. 

Involuntarily  he  thought  of  Cooper^s  Pathflnder,^^  and 
of  the  Abreks,  and  noting  the  old  man^s  mysterious  man- 
ner, he  wondered  whether  this  last  was  caused  by  the  pres- 
ence of  danger,  or  merely  by  a keen  love  of  sport. 

They  are  my  own  tracks,  remarked  Jerochka,  com- 
placently. 

A short  distance  further  on  they  came  to  a spreading 
pear-tree,  beneath  which  they  saw  traces  of  an  animaFs 
recent  sojourn. 

He  has  been  here  this  morning,  whispered  the  old 
hunter.  The  nest  is  still  warm.-^^ 

Suddenly  a loud  rustling  resounded  about  ten  yardn 


80 


THE  COSSACKS. 


from  them.  They  both  started  violently  and  seized  their 
guns,  but  they  could  see  nothing,  though  the  cracking  of 
the  branches  continued.  A rapid  but  measured  gallop  was 
heard  for  a moment.  The  cracking  sound  grew  fainter 
and  fainter,  until  it  gave  place  to  a dull  noise  that  finally 
died  away  in  the  depths  of  the  forest. 

Overwhelmed  with  consternation,  Olenine  turned  from 
the  thicket  to  the  old  Cossack.  Uncle  Jerochka  was  stand- 
ing perfectly  motionless,  with  his  gun  pressed  convulsively 
to  his  breast.  His  cap  was  on  the  back  of  his  head,  his 
eyes  sparkled  with  unusual  brilliancy,  and  his  wide-open 
mouth  disclosed  each  yellow  tooth.  He  looked  like  one 
petrified. 

A stag!^^  he  faltered,  at  last. 

And  throwing  down  his  gun,  he  began  to  tear  his  gray 
beard. 

He  was  there  he  continued.  He  must  have  come 
by  the  path.  Fool,  idiot!  FoolT^  he  repeated,  still  tug- 
ging at  his  beard. 

It  was  beginning  to  grow  dark  when  Olenine  reached 
home,  tired  and  hungry.  Dinner  was  ready.  He  eat, 
took  a glass  with  the  old  hunter,  and  then  went  out  on  the 
porch.  The  mountains  were  looming  up  grandly  in  the 
horizon  as  the  old  hunter  resumed  his  interminable  tales 
of  the  chase,  of  the  Abreks,  of  his.  sweethearts,  and  of  his 
various  achievements  of  former  years. 

The  beautiful  Marianna  passed  and  repassed  in  the  court- 
yard, the  vigor  and  youthful  grace  of  her  form  no  whit 
concealed  by  the  scanty  garment  she  wore. 


CHAPTEK  XX. 

On  the  following  day  Olenine  repaired  alone  to  the  place 
where  they  had  started  the  stag.  The  day  was  calm  and 
very  warm,  tlie  sky  cloudless.  It  was  barely  noon  when 
lie  readied  the  stag’s  haunt,  but  the  dew  had  dried  off 


THE  COSSACKS. 


81 


some  time  before,  even  in  the  forest,  and  a host  of  gnats 
settled  on  Olenine^s  face,  neck  and  hands.  His  black  dog 
looked  gray,  so  thickly  was  he  covered  with  the  insects. 
They  bit  Olenine  through  his  coat,  which  had  also  become 
of  a grayish  hue  for  a like  reason,  and  not  knowing  how 
to  protect  himself  from  their  attacks  he  said  to  himself 
that  it  would  be  well  nigh  impossible  to  live  even  at  the 
station  during  the  summer. 

He  was  about  to  retrace  his  steps  when  he  remembered 
that  other  people  did  manage  to  endure  it,  so  he  resolved 
to  summon  up  all  his  patience  and  allow  himself  to  be  de- 
voured. Strange  to  say,  by  noon  the  experience  began  to 
seem  almost  agreeable  to  him.  He  even  fancied  that  if  he 
were  not  surrounded  by  this  dense  crowd  of  gnats  the  forest 
would  lose  its  savage  character,  and  consequently  one  of 
its  chief  attractions. 

These  myriads  of  insects  were  in  perfect  keeping  with 
the  luxuriant  vegetation,  the  rich  green  foliage,  the  crowd 
of  beasts  and  birds  that  filled  the  forest,  the  sultry  air,  and 
the  tiny  rivulets  that  gleamed  here  and  there;  and  he 
finally  found  a charm  in  that  which  had  at  first  appeared 
intolerable. 

After  thoroughly  exploring  the  clearing,  and  finding 
nothing,  he  decided  to  rest  there  awhile,  and  gradually 
there  stole  over  him  a feeling  of  inefl:able  happiness,  a pro- 
found love  for  all  mankind,  and  involuntarily,  yielding  to 
a habit  of  infancy,  he  made  the  sign  of  the  cross  and  mur- 
mured a prayer. 

Suddenly  some  such  thoughts  as  these  fiashed  through 
his  mind  with  marvelous  distinctness:  ^^Here,  I,  Dimitri 
Olenine,  a being  surely  favored  above  all  others,  am  lying 
in  the  very  spot  where  a magnificent  stag  was  lying  only  a 
short  time  ago — a stag  that  has  never  seen  the  face  of 
man,  and  in  a place  no  one  has  ever  visited  or  perhaps 
even  thought  of  before.  Here  I am  surrounded  by  trees, 
both  young  and  old;  one  of  them  is  almost  concealed  from 


S2 


THE  COSSACKS. 


sight  by  the  luxuriance  of  a climbing  vine.  Around  me 
circle  pheasants,  pursuing  one  another,  and  suspecting, 
perhaps,  that  I have  just  slain  some  of  their  brethren. 
He  picked  up  the  pheasants  he  had  killed,  examined  them, 
laid  them  down  again,  and  wiped  his  blood-stained  hand  on 
the  skirt  of  his  coat.  The  hungry  jackals  have  perhaps 
scented  their  blood  already,  and  are  even  now  lurking 
around.  The  gnats  buzz  merrily  above  my  head  and 
among  the  leaves,  which  probably  seem  to  them  so  many 
immense  islands.  There  are  hundreds,  thousands,  millions 
of  gnats,  all  of  which  have  a right  to  live,  and  each  of 
them  is  a thing  apart,  the  possessor  of  a distinct  identity, 
just  as  much  as  I am.^^ 

He  fancied  he  could  guess  what  the  insects  were  think- 
ing and  saying.  Here,  my  friends,  here  is  some  one  we 
can  besiege  and  devour. And  he  realized  fully  that  he 
was  not  a Eussian  nobleman,  a friend  or  relative  of  such 
and  such  a person,  but  simply  a living  being,  like  a pheas- 
ant, or  like  one  of  the  gnats  hovering  around  him. 

Like  them,  and  like  Jerochka,  I shall  live  for  awhile, 
and  then  die,^^  he  said  to  himself.  He  is  right,  the 
grass  will  grow  over  me,  and  that  will  be  the  end  of  it. 
And  what  does  it  matter  if  it  is?  It  is  none  the  less  neces- 
sary to  have  faith  and  to  endeavor  to  enjoy  life.  I desire 
happiness  whether  I be  only  an  insect  or  an  animal  pre- 
destined to  die,  or  a man  endowed  with  divine  life.  In 
either  case  I am  equally  anxious  to  enjoy  life.  But  what 
is  the  surest  way  to  do  that?  And  why  have  I not  been 
happy  up  to  the  present  time?^^ 

He  reviewed  his  past  life,  and  it  filled  him  with  horror, 
lie  realized  now  his  boundless  selfishness,  and  how  exacting 
and  unreasonable  his  demands  had  been,  though  he  really 
needed  little  or  nothing.  He  glanced  around  him,  and  his 
eyes  fell  upon  a transi^areiit  leaf,  through  which  the  sun- 
light was  streaming  brightly,  and  felt  wonderfully  happy. 


THE  COSSACKS.  83 

though  it  would  have  been  impossible  for  him  to  state  the 
reason. 

Why  am  I so  happy  now?^^  he  said  to  himself;  and 
why  is  it  that  I feel  as  if  I had  never  really  lived  before? 
How  mad  I have  been!  I have  gratified  my  every  wish 
without  regard  to  cost^  and  have  reaped  only  disgrace  and 
remorse. 

A sudden  light  flashed  upon  him. 

Happiness,  true  happiness/^  he  thought,  consists  in 
living  for  others.  Man  craves  happiness;  that  is  only  nat- 
ural. If  he  endeavors  to  secure  it  by  selfish  aims,  and  by 
the  pursuit  of  wealth,  fame,  or  even  love,  he  may  never 
obtain  either  of  these,  and  his  longings  may  consequently 
remain  ungratified.  Hence  it  is  only  these  selfish  desires 
that  are  wrong,  not  the  desire  for  happiness.  What  are 
the  only  dreams  that  can  be  realized  in  spite  of  the  most 
adverse  circumstances?  Love  and  self-sacrifice.^^ 

He  sprung  up  delighted  and  agitated  at  the  discovery  of 
this  truth,  and  began  to  wonder  whom  he  could  benefit, 
and  to  whom  he  should  devote  himself.  I need  nothing 
more  myself;  why  should  I not  devote  my  life  to  others ?^^ 
he  thought. 

He  picked  up  his  gun  and  quitted  the  secluded  nook 
with  the  intention  of  returning  home,  and  reflecting  upon 
the  best  available  means  of  doing  good.  When  he  reached 
the  clearing  the  sun  had  sunk  behind  the  tree-tops,  the  air 
had  become  cooler,  and  the  entire  scene  had  undergone  a 
decided  change  of  aspect.  Clouds  obscured  the  sky,  and 
the  wind  was  moaning  dismally  through  the  branches. 
Olenine  called  his  dog,  who  had  started  off  in  pursuit  of 
some  animal,  and  his  voice  sounded  hollow  and  strange  in 
the  solitude.  A feeling  of  fear  seized  him.  The  Abreks^ 
and  the  murders  of  which  he  had  heard  recurred  to  his 
mind,  and  he  momentarily  expected  to  see  an  enemy  spring 
out  at  him  from  behind  some  bush  or  shrub.  He  thought 


84 


THE  COSSACKS. 


of  God,  and  of  the  life  to  come  as  he  had  not  thought  be- 
fore for  many  a year. 

Is  it  worth  while  to  think  of  self  when  one  may  die  at 
any  moment,  and  without  having  done  any  good  to  any 
one?^^  he  asked  himself. 

He  took  the  path  which  led,  as  he  supposed,  to  the  vil- 
lage. All  thought  of  sport  was  forgotten  now;  he  was 
anxious  and  worried,  and  cast  terrified  glances  at  each  tree 
and  shrub,  fearing  to  encounter  death  at  each  step.  He 
wandered  on  without  knowing  where  he  was  going  for  a 
long  time,  and  at  last,  reaching  a sort  of  rough  canal  filled 
with  cold  and  muddy  water,  he  decided  to  follow  that. 
Suddenly  there  was  a loud  rustling  in  the  reeds  behind  him; 
he  started  violently  and  raised  his  gun  to  his  shoulder,  but 
the  very  next  moment  he  felt  ashamed  of  his  fears,  for  it 
was  only  his  panting,  tired  dog  that  had  jumped  into  the 
ditch,  and  was  greedily  drinking  the  cold  water. 

Olenine  now  followed  the  dog,  persuaded  that  the  animal 
would  know  the  way  homeward;  but  in  spite  of  the  com- 
panionship of  this  faithful  friend  his  surroundings  seemed 
to  grow  more  and. more  gloomy.  The  forest  became  much 
darker;  the  wind  howled  more  and  more  dismally  through 
the  trees;  great  birds  started  up  from  their  nests,  shriek- 
ing wildly;  vegetation  seemed  to  become  less  and  less  lux- 
uriant, and  bare,  sandy  spots  covered  with  the  tracks  of 
wild  beasts  more  and  more  numerous.  Olenine  counted 
his  pheasants  and  found  that  one  was  missing,  though  its 
bloody  head  was  still  fast  in  his  belt.  Terror  seized  the 
young  man;  he  was  really  afraid,  and  he  began  to  pray. 
He  feared  above  all  else  that  he  would  die  without  having 
done  any  good  in  the  world,  and  he  longed  ardently  to  live 
— to  live  to  perform  some  grand  act  of  self-abnegation. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


85 


CHAPTEE  XXL 

Light  and  hope  seemed  to  suddenly  dawn  upon  Olenine^s 
troubled  soul.  He  heard  words  uttered  in  the  Eussian 
tongue^  and  the  monotonous  flow  of  the  Terek^  and  a few 
yards  ahead  of  him  he  perceived  the  rapid  and  turbid 
waters  of  the  river.  Beyond  lay  the  steppes  and  the 
mountains,  and  by  the  river  side  stood  an  outpost  tower, 
and  a saddled  horse  browsing  among  the  rushes.  The  sun 
hung  like  a huge  ball  of  Are  against  a background  of  heavy 
clouds,  illumining  with  its  last  rays  the  river,  the  rushes, 
the  buildings  of  the  outpost,  and  a group  of  Cossacks, 
among  them  Lukashka,  who  instantly  attracted  attention 
by  his  proud  and  fearless  bearing. 

He  had  reached  a Cossack  outpost  directly  opposite  a set- 
tlement of  friendly  Circassians  on  the  other  side  of  the 
stream.  He  bowed  to  the  Cossacks  and  stepped  into  the 
quarters,  where  he  was  coldly  received,  partly  because  he 
was  smoking,  and  partly  because  their  attention  was  other- 
wise engaged  just  at  that  moment.  A Circassian,  a rela- 
tive of  the  man  who  had  just  been  killed,  had  come  in 
company  with  a dragoman  to  offer  a ransom  for  the  body, 
and  was  now  awaiting  the  arrival  of  the  authorities.  This 
brother  of  the  deceased,  a tall,  powerful  fellow,  had  the 
calm  majestic  mien  of  a sovereign,  in  spite  of  his  ragged 
garments,  and  strikingly  resembled  his  brother  in  appear- 
ance. He  honored  no  one  with  so  much  as  a glance,  but 
remained  crouching  upon  his  crossed  legs,  smoking  a short 
pipe,  and  giving  from  time  to  time  sundry  orders  to  his 
companion  in  a guttural  and  imperious  voice.  He  was  evi- 
dently a djighite,  who  had  been  brought  in  contact  with 
Eussians  more  than  once. 

Olenine  approached  the  body;  but  the  brother  of  the 


THE  COSSACKS. 


dead  man  glanced  at  him  scornfully  and  gave  a brusque 
order  to  the  dragoman,  who  hastened  to  cover  the  face  of 
the  dead.  Olenine  was  struck  by  the  Abrek^s  austere  air, 
and  attempted  to  ask  him  where  he  lived;  but  without  giv- 
ing him  so  much  as  a glance,  the  Circassian  turned  away. 
Astonished  at  the  indifference  the  man  displayed,  Olenine 
attributed  it  to  an  ignorance  of  the  Kussian  language  and 
to  natural  stupidity,  and  turned  his  attention  to  the  Abrek's 
companion,  who.  acted  the  part  of  spy,  arbitrator,  and 
dragoman,  all  at  the  same  time — a swarthy,  wide-awake 
Circassian,  with  white  teeth  and  sparkling  black  eyes,  who 
seemed  very  willing  to  talk,  and  who  immediately  asked  for 
a cigarette. 

There  were  five  brothers,"  he  said,  in  his  broken  Kus- 
sian; and  this  is  the  third  that  has  perished  at  the  hands 
of  the  Cossacks.  His  brother,  whom  you  see  here,  is  a 
brave  man — a very  brave  man.  When  Ahmet  Khan — that 
is  the  name  of  the  deceased — was  killed^  this  brother  was 
hiding  in  the  reeds  on  the  opposite  bank  and  saw  the  whole 
affair.  He  remained  in  his  hiding-place  until  night,  and 
wanted  to  kill  the  old  man,  but  his  companions  prevented 
it." 

Just  then  Lukashka  came  out  and  sat  down  beside  them. 

To  what  village  do  they  belong?"  asked  Olenine. 

Do  you  know  where  Suyken  is?  Their  village  is  in  that 
narrow  pass  you  see  over  there,  about  ten  miles  further 
on." 

Do  you  know  Guirei  Khan?"  asked  Lukashka,  evi- 
dently rather  proud  of  this  acquaintance.  He  is  a friend 
of  mine. " 

Yes,  he  is  one  of  my  near  neighbors." 

The  chief  of  the  village  and  the  station-master  soon 
made  their  appearance,  accompanied  by  two  Cossacks.  The 
station-master,  who  was  a new  arrival,  saluted  the  Cossacks, 
wlio  (lid  not  respond  as  soldiers  usually  do  by  shouting 
“We  wisli  you  good  health!"  Some  of  them  did  not  even 


THE  COSSACKS. 


87 


return  the  salute.  Several  rose,  however — Luka  was  one 
of.  them — and  straightened  themselves  up.  All  this  seemed 
very  strange  to  Olenine.  It  looked  as  if  these  Cossacks 
were  only  playing  at  soldiers.  Even  these  slight  formali- 
ties were  soon  abandoned,  and  the  officer  began  a conversa- 
tion in  Tartar  with  the  dragoman.  Then  a few  lines  were 
written  on  a slip  of  paper  and  handed  to  the  dragoman;  he 
gave  the  station-master  some  money  in  return,  and  the 
body  was  turned  over  to  him. 

Which  of  you  is  Luka  Gaveilow?^^  inquired  the  station- 
master. 

Lukashka  removed  his  cap  and  stepped  forward. 

I have  reported  the  case  to  the  colonel,  and  asked  for 
the  cross  for  you — for  it  is  too  soon  to  promote  you  to  the 
rank  of  corporal.  Do  you  know  how  to  read.^^^ 

What  a fine-looking  fellow  he  is!^^  said  the  official  in  a 
whispered  aside.  To  what  family  of  Gaveilows  does  he 
belong — to  Cheraki  Gaveilow^s  family?^^ 

He  is  a nephew. 

I thought  so;  I thought  so.^^ 

Luka  was  radiant  with  delight  as  he  put  on  his  cap  and 
reseated  himself  beside  Olenine. 

The  body  of  the  Abrek  was  placed  in  a boat  by  the  Cos- 
sacks, and  as  the  brother  approached  the  river  bank  they 
stepped  back,  involuntarily  giving  place  to  him. 

He  stamped  his  foot  violently  on  the  ground,  and  then 
leaped  into  the  boat.  Olenine  noticed  that  he  now  glanced 
at  the  Cossacks  for  the  first  time,  and  that  he  hastily  asked 
his  companion  a question.  The  latter  replied  by  pointing 
to  Lukashka.  The  Abrek  looked  at  him,  then  turning 
slowly,  he  directed  his  gaze  upon  the  opposite  shore.  His 
features  expressed  not  so  much  hatred  as  a cold  disdain. 
He  made  some  remark,  too,  which  Olenine  failed  to  hear. 

What  did  he  say?^^  he  inquired. 

^^You  fight  us;  but  we  will  crush  youT^  answered  the 


88 


THE  COSSACKS. 


interpreter^  bursting  into  a laugh  that  disclosed  all  his 
white  teeth  as  he  jumped  into  the  boat. 

The  brother  of  the  dead  man  was  sitting  there,  silent  and 
motionless,  with  his  eyes  still  riveted  on  the  opposite  shore. 
He  seemed  to  despise  the  Cossacks  too  thoroughly  to  feel 
the  slightest  curiosity  in  regard  to  what  was  going  on 
around  him.  The  dragoman  stood  in  the  stern  propelling 
the  boat  and  talking  incessantly.  Horses  were  in  readiness 
on  the  other  side  of  the  river.  When  they  landed  they 
threw  the  body  across  a horse,  though  he  capered  and 
pranced  wildly  at  the  sight  of  it;  then  they  mounted  and 
trotted  leisurely  by  the  village  from  which  a crowd  had  run 
out  to  see  them  pass. 

The  Cossacks  were  all  in  the  best  of  spirits,  and  jokes 
and  laughter  resounded  on  every  side.  The  chief  and  the 
station-master  went  into  that  officer ^s  quarters  to  take  a 
drink.  Lukashka,  whose  face  was  radiant,  though  he  en- 
deavored to  maintain  a serious  air,  remained  sitting  with 
his  elbows  resting  on  his  knees. 

What  makes  you  smoke?^^  he  asked,  feigning  a curi- 
osity he  did  not  feel,  merely  because  he  saw  that  Olenine 
was  not  feeling  altogether  at  ease  among  the  Cossacks. 

I am  in  the  habit  of  it.  Why  do  you  ask?^^ 

If  one  of  us  dared  to  smoke  he  would  catch  the  devil. 
Do  you  see  those  mountains?^^  continued  Lukashka,  point- 
ing to  a chain  dimly  visible  in  the  distance.  They  don^t 
look  very  far  off;  but  you  would  never  reach  them.  How 
are  you  going  to  find  your  way  home?  It  is  getting  dark; 
but  I can  show  you  the  way  if  you  wish.  Ask  the  corporal 
to  let  me  go  with  you. 

What  a handsome  fellow  thought  Olenine,  admiring 
the  Cossack ^s  gay  and  frank  expression.  He  remembered 
Marianna  and  tlie  kiss  at  the  gate;  and  the  Cossack^s  igno- 
rance and  want  of  education  pained  him. 

“ How  terrible!’"  he  tliought.  One  man  kills  another 
and  feels  as  hajjpj  and  proud  as  if  he  had  accomplished 


THE  COSSACKS. 


89 


some  noble  feat!  Is  it  possible  that  nothing  tells  him  that 
there  is  no  cause  for  rejoicing,  that  self-sacrifice  is  noble 
and  commendable,  and  not  murder 

You  had  better  take  care  and  not  fall  into  his  clutches, 
Lukashka,^-’  remarked  one  of  the  Cossacks  who  had  carried 
the  Abrek^s  body  to  the  skiff. 

Luka  looked  up. 

Do  you  mean  my  godson^s?^^  he  asked,  referring  to 
the  dead  Abrek. 

Your  godson  will  never  trouble  you  any  more.  It  is 
his  red-bearded  brother  I^m  talking  about. 

He  had  better  pray  to  get  off  safe  and  sound  himself, 
replied  Luka,  laughing. 

Why  do  you  laugh?^^  asked  Olenine.  If  any  one 
killed  your  brother  would  you  be  glad  of  it?^^ 

The  Cossack  smiled.  He  seemed  to  understand  his  com- 
panion^'s  meaning,  but  he  was  evidently  far  above  all  such 
prejudices. 

That  is  by  no  means  unlikely.  They  kill  some  of  us 
occasionally,  too.^^ 


CHAPTBE  XXII. 

Olekihe,  partly  to  please  Lukashka,  and  partly  so  as 
not  to  be  obliged  to  traverse  the  forest  alone  in  the  dark- 
ness, asked  the  corporaDs  permission  to  take  the  young 
Cossack  with  him.  He  thought  that  Lukashka  would  be 
glad  to  see  Marianna  again,  and  was  not  sorry  to  have  a 
pleasant  companion  himself.  He  united  Lukashka  and 
Marianna  in  his  imagination,  and  took  pleasure  in  the 
thought. 

‘^He  is  in  love  with  Marianna,  he  thought,  ^^and  I 
might  have  loved  her  myself. 

A feeling  somewhat  akin  to  friendship  seemed  to  have 
sprung  up  between  the  two  young  men,  and  they  smiled  as 
they  looked  at  each  other. 


90 


THE  COSSACKS. 


‘‘  Which  gate  are  we  going  to?^^  inquired  Olenine. 

To  the  middle  one.  I will  go  with  you  as  far  as  the 
swamp.  YouT  have  nothing  to  fear  after  that. 

‘‘ Do  you  think  Tm  afraid?  Nonsense!  Go  back;  1^11 
find  my  way  alone. 

Oh,  l\e  nothing  else  to  do.  And  why  shouldnT  you 
feel  afraid?  I^m  sure  that  we  often  do/’  replied  the  Cos- 
sack, laughing. 

Come  with  me  to  my  house,  then.  We^ll  have  a talk 
and  something  to  drink,  and  in  the  morning  you  can  go 
back. 

Do  you  think  I can  find  no  other  place  to  spend  the 
night?  Besides,  the  corporal  told  me  to  come  back  to- 
night. 

I heard  you  singing  last  evening;  and  then  I saw 
you— 

I only  do  as  others  do.^^ 

Are  you  really  going  to  be  married  soon?^^ 

My  mother  wants  me  to;  but  I haven^t  a horse  yet.  ” 

Are  you  in  the  regular  service  ?^^ 

Oh,  no;  I^m  preparing  for  it;  but  I have  no  horse,  and 
I don’t  know  how  I^m  going  to  get  one.  That’s  the  rea- 
son I can^t  marry  yet.-^^ 

How  much  does  a horse  cost?^^ 

I was  inquiring  the  price  of  one  the  other  day  on  the 
other  side  of  the  river,  and  I can^t  get  a good  one  for  less 
than  sixty  rubles.-’^ 

Would  you  be  willing  to  act  as  my  orderly?  If  you 
will  ril  give  you  a horse. 

Why  should  you  give  me  a horse ?^^  asked  Lukashka, 
laughing;  1^11  get  one  somehow  or  other. 

Jhit  why  won^t  you  be  my  orderly ?^^  insisted  Olenine, 
pleased  at  the  idea  of  giving  a horse  to  Lukashka,  but 
somewhat  embai’i-assed,  without  really  understanding  why. 

Have  you  a house  of  your  own  in  Kussia?^^  inquired 
the  Cossack. 


THE  COSSACKS.  91 

Olenine  could  not  resist  the  temptation  to  say  that  he 
had  several  houses. 

And  have  you  horses  like  ours?^^ 

I have  a hundred,  worth  three  or  four  hundred  rubles 
apiece,  but  not  like  yours. 

Then  what  possessed  you  to  come  here?^^  asked  Lu- 
kashka,  incredulously.  You  certainly  couldn^t  have 
come  of  your  own  free  will.  Here  is  where  you  made  a 
mistake  in  the  road,^^  he  added,  pointing  to  a path.  “ You 
should  have  turned  to  the  right  instead  of  to  the  left.'^^ 

I did  come  of  my  own  free  will,^^  replied  Olenine. 

I wanted  to  see  the  country  and  take  part  in  the  cam- 
paign. 

I should  like  to  do  that.  Just  hear  those  jackals. 

Do  you  feel  no  remorse  for  having  killed  a man?^^ 
Why  should  I?  Oh!  if  I could  only  go  on  a campaign. 
There^s  nothing  I desire  so  much."^^  , 

We  can  go  on  one  together,  perhaps.  Our  company 
will  go  on  an  expedition  before  the  holidays,  and  possibly 
some  of  the  native  troops  will  go  too. 

But  what  induced  you  to  come  here?  You  have  your 
house  and  your  horses,  and  probably  your  serfs.  If  I had 
been  in  your  place,  I should  have  stayed  in  Eussia  and  en- 
joyed myself.  What  is  your  rank?^^ 

I am  color-bearer,  and  shall  soon  be  an  officer. 

It  was  considerably  after  nightfall  when  they  neared  the 
station.  They  were  not  yet  out  of  the  forest;  the  wind  was 
still  moaning  and  sighing  through  the  trees;  the  jackals 
seemed  to  be  howling  and  laughing  and  weeping  close  be- 
side them,  but  they  could  hear  in  the  distance  the  voices  of 
women  and  the  barking  of  dogs,  and  could  distinguish  the 
shape  of  the  houses  and  see  the  lights.  Olenine  felt  that 
this  village  was  really  his  home,  and  that  he  would  never 
be  as  happy  anywhere  else.  He  felt  amicably  disposed  to- 
ward every  one,  and  especially  toward  Lukashka.  After 
he  reached  the  cottage  he  had  the  horse  he  bought  afc  Groz- 


92 


THE  COSSACKS. 


noi  brought  out — not  the  one  he  rode  himself,  but  a good 
animal,  though  very  young — and,  to  the  intense  astonish- 
ment of  Lukashka,  made  him  a present  of  it  then  and 
there. 

Why  do  you  give  me  a horse asked  Lukashka.  I 
have  never  done  you  any  service. 

The  animal  cost  me  very  little,  replied  Olenine. 

Take  it;  some  time  you  can  give  me  something  in  re- 
turn. 

But  what  can  I give  you?  A horse  costs  a good  deal 
of  money. 

Take  it,  take  it.  If  you  donT  I shall  regard  it  as  an 
insult.  Vania,  hand  the  horse  over  to  him.'’^ 

Lukashka  took  the  bridle. 

Well,  then,  I thank  you  a thousand  times.  I never 
dreamed  of  such  a thing. 

Olenine  was  as^happy  as  a child. 

Tie  her.  She^s  a good  animal.  I bought  her  at  Groz- 
noi.  Now  bring  us  some  wine,  Vania. 

When  the  wine  was  brought  in,  Lukashka  seated  himself 
and  took  a glass. 

With  God^s  help  I will  repay  you,^^  he  said,  draining 
his  glass.  What  is  your  name?^^ 

Dimitri  Andreitch. 

^^Well,  Dimitri  Andreitch,  may  Heaven  preserve  you! 
We  shall  be  good  friends,  I am  sure.  Come  and  see  me; 
we  are  not  rich,  but  we  have  enough  to  entertain  our 
friends.  I will  tell  my  mother  to  bring  you  some  cheese 
and  some  grapes,  if  you  will  accept  them.  Come,  too,  to 
the  outpost.  You  will  find  me  at  your  service.  I will  take 
you  to  the  hunting  grounds  on  the  other  side  of  the  river  if 
you  wish.  What  a splendid  wild  boar  I killed  the  other 
day.  What  a j)ity  I divided  it  witli  the  other  Cossacks.  If 
I had  only  known,  I would  have  brought  part  of  it  to  you.^^ 

Thank  you,  thank  you.  You  are  very  kind.  Only 


THE  COSSACKS.  93 

don^t  harness  the  horse  to  a cart;  he  has  never  been  in  the 
traces. 

Harness  a horse  to  a cart!  Of  course  not.  This  is 
what  I will  do/ ^ continued  Luka^  lowering  his  voice,  ^‘1 
will  take  you  to  the  home  of  my  friend,  Guirei-Khan. 
Will  you^o  with  me?^^ 

Yes,  we  will  go  together. 

Lukashka  seemed  perfectly  at  ease.  Indeed,  his  calm- 
ness and  the  familiarity  of  his  manner  surprised  and  even 
shocked  Olenine  a little.  They  talked  a long  time,  and  it 
was  late  when  he  rose,  shook  hands  with  his  host  and  went 
away. 

Olenine  looked  out  the  window  to  see  what  the  Cossack 
was  going  to  do.  Lukashka  led  the  horse  out  of  the  court- 
yard, mounted  it  with  cat-like  agility,  and  started  the  ani- 
mal at  full  speed  down  the  street.  Olenine  had  fancied 
that  he  would  inform  Marianna  of  his  good  fortune  with- 
out delay,  but  though  he  did  not,  Olenina  felt  just  as  hap- 
py as  before.  In  his  childish  joy  he  could  not  refrain  from 
telling  Vania  of  the  present  he  had  just  made,  and  from 
explaining  his  new  theory  in  regard  to  happiness.  This 
last  did  not  meet  with  Vania^'s  approval,  however.  He 
declared  in  French  that  there  was  no  money  in  it,  or,  in 
other  words,  that  it  was  all  nonsense. 

Lukashka  rode  home,  jumped  from  his  horse,  and  asked 
his  mother  to  take  the  animal  to  pasture,  as  he  must  re- 
turn to  the  outpost  that  night.  The  dumb  girl  took 
charge  of  the  horse,  and  explained  by  signs  that  she  knew 
who  had  made  her  brother  a present  of  it,  and  that  she 
bowed  down  before  him.  The  old  mother  shook  her  head 
on  hearing  her  son^s  story.  She  felt  sure  that  he  had 
stolen  the  horse,  so  she  ordered  the  dumb  girl  to  be  sure 
and  take  it  to  pasture  before  daybreak. 

As  Lukashka  wended  his  way  back  to  the  outpost  he  re- 
flected upon  Olenine ’s  conduct.  He  did  not  consider  the 
horse  a valuable  one,  still  it  was  worth  at  least  forty  rubles, 


94 


THE  COSSACKS. 


and  he  was  very  well  satisfied  with  it.  But  he  could  not 
conceive  why  such  a gift  had  been  presented  to  him,  and 
he  felt  no  gratitude  whatever.  On  the  contrary,  a thou- 
sand suspicions  most  unflattering  to  the  color-bearer  flitted 
through  his  mind.  What  the  Eussian^s  motive  was  he 
could  not  imagine,  but  he  did  not  believe  that  any  stranger 
would  make  him  a present  worth  forty  rubles  without  some 
other  reason  than  natural  goodness  of  heart.  If  he  had 
been  drunk  I could  understand  it,^^  he  thought,  ‘^but  he 
was  perfectly  sober,  so  he  must  want  to  make  use  of  me  in 
carrying  out  some  evil  design.  But  pshaw!  the  animal  is 
mine,  and  1^11  be  on  my  guard.  I^m  no  fool,  and  wee’ll 
see  who  comes  out  ahead  in  the  end. 

These  suspicions  once  aroused,  Lukashka  began  to  enter- 
tain a positively  unfriendly  feeling  toward  Olenine.  He 
did  not  tell  any  one  how  he  came  into  possession  of  the 
horse.  He  told  some  of  his  acquaintances  that  he  had 
bought  it;  to  the  questions  of  others  he  replied  in  an 
evasive  manner.  The  truth  soon  became  known  in  the 
village.,  however,  and  his  mother,  Marianna,  Ilea  Vassil- 
itch  and  others  did  not  know  what  to  think,  but  notwith- 
standing their  suspicions,  the  affair  inspired  them  with  a 
profound  respect  for  Olenine^s  wealth. 

Do  you  know  that  the  color-bearer  has  given  Lukash- 
ka a horse  worth  fifty  rubles?^^  asked  one.  How  rich  he 
must  be!^^ 

I heard  so,^^  replied  another,  with  a knowing  air. 

The  stranger  must  expect  Luka  to  render  him  some  im- 
portant service.  What  a lucky  fellow  Lukashka  is!^^ 

What  a lunatic  the  color-bearer  must  be!^^  exclaimed 
a third.  Heaven  grant  that  he  doesnT  try  to  set  fire  to 
our  houses. 


THE  COSSACKS, 


96 


CHAPTEE  XXIIL 

For  awhile  after  this  Olenine^s  life  went  on  quietly  and 
monotonously.  Of  his  superior  officers  and  his  comrades 
he  saw  but  little.  The  position  of  a color-bearer  of  wealth 
in  the  Caucasus  is  yery  pleasant^  for  he  is  not  obliged  to 
drill  or  perform  service  of  any  kind.  After  the  last  cam- 
paign his  name  had  been  sent  up  for  promotion,  but  at  the 
present  time  his  position  was  a sinecure.  The  officers  re- 
garded him  as  an  aristocrat  and  manifested  a certain 
reserve  toward  him,  and  he  did  not  care  for  their  amuse- 
ments, which  consisted  principally  of  card  parties.  An 
officer's  life  under  such  circumstances  is  too  well  known  to 
require  description;  each  one  of  them  drinks  beer,  plays 
cards,  and  calculates  his  chances  of  decorations  and  pro- 
motion. At  the  stations  he  drinks  with  his  post,  treats  the 
girls  to  honey  or  other  dainties,  flirts  with  the  Cossack 
women,  falls  in  love  with  them,  and  sometimes  marries 
them.  Olenine  had  always  lived  to  suit  his  own  fancy,  and 
he  had  an  intense  horror  of  beaten  grooves,  so  here,  as 
elsewhere,  he  was  a law  unto  himself. 

Going  to  bed  at  an  early  hour,  he  very  naturally  fell  into 
the  habit  of  waking  about  daybreak,  and  after  taking  a 
cup  of  tea  on  his  little  porch,  and  sufficiently  admiring  the 
mountains,  the  lovely  morning  and  Marianna,  he  generally 
slipped  on  an  old  coat  and  a pair  of  buckskin  sandals,  stuck 
his  dagger  in  his  belt>  took  his  gun  and  a small  bag  with 
his  lunch  and  some  tobacco,  called  his  dog,  and  started  for 
the  forest.  He  usually  returned  about  seven  o^clock  in  the 
evening,  tired  and  half  starved,  with  flve  or  six  pheasants 
in  his  belt,  and  without  having  touched  either  lunch  or 
cigars.  If  the  thoughts  that  lay  dormant  in  his  brain 
could  have  been  counted  like  the  cigarettes  in  his  lunch- 


96 


THE  COSSACKS. 


bag  one  would  have  discovered  that  their  number^  too,  was 
intact.  He  returned  home  fresh  and  strong  mentally  and 
perfectly  contented.  It  would  have  been  impossible  for 
him  to  tell  what  he  had  been  thinking  about  during  the 
day.  Sometimes  he  fancied  himself  a Cossack,  working 
in  the  garden  with  his  wife;  sometimes  an  Abrek,  roaming 
over  the  mountains;  sometimes  a wild  boar,  running  away 
from  himself. 

His  evenings  were  usually  spent  in  Uncle  Jerochka^s 
company.  Olenine  drank  with  him,  though  sparingly,  and 
they  chatted  pleasantly,  and  usually  separated  well  satisfied 
with  their  evening.  The  next  day  brought  another  hunt- 
ing expedition,  the  same  wholesome  fatigue,  the  same  long 
conversation  with  the  old  hunter,  and  likewise  the  same 
perfect  contentment.  On  fete  days  and  Sundays  he  did 
not  leave  the  house,  and  his  principal  occupation  then  was 
watching  Marianna,  whose  every  movement  was  plainly 
visible  from  his  windows  and  porch.  He  fancied  he  liked 
to  gaze  at  her  as  he  gazed  at  the  sky  or  mountains,  and 
did  not  think  for  an  instant  of  any  more  intimate  relations 
with  her.  He  felt  sure  that  no  such  feeling  could  exist 
between  her  and  himself  as  existed  between  her  and  Lu- 
kashka.  He  said  to  himself  that  if  he  followed  the  examples 
of  his  comrades  in  such  matters  he  should  only  exchange 
his  present  quiet  contentment  for  a life  of  uneasiness,  dis- 
enchantment and  remorse.  Above  all,  he  had  a feeling  of 
wholesome  respect  for  Marianna,  and  would  not  have 
trifled  with  her  for  worlds. 

One  day  during  the  summer  Olenine  concluded  to  re- 
main at  home,  and  very  unexpectedly  one  of  his  Moscow 
acquaintances  dropped  down,  seemingly  from  the  clouds. 

“ My  dear  fellow,  my  dear  fellow,  how  delighted  I was 
to  learn  that  you  were  here!^^  exclaimed  his  visitor  in  Mus- 
covite Frencli. 

Thay  spoke  of  an  Olenine.  ^ What  Olenine?^  I asked. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


97 


I was  enchanted  that  fate  had  brought  us  together  again. 
Well,  how  are  you — and  how  do  you  happen  to  be  here?^^ 

Then  Prince  Beletsky  told  his  own  story.  He  was  to  be 
connected  with  this  regiment  awhile,  but  the  commander- 
in-chief  wanted  him  to  act  as  his  aid-de-camp,  and  he  was 
to  join  him  after  the  next  campaign,  though  he  was  not 
very  particular  about  it. 

Having  made  up  my  mind  to  serve  in  this  hole,  I 
mean  to  win  a cross  or  secure  a transfer  into  the  Guards. 
This  is  absolutely  necessary,  not  on  my  own  account,  but 
on  account  of  my  family  and  friends.  The  prince  treated 
me  most  generously — he  is  a splendid  fellow,  continued 
Beletsky,  without  once  pausing  to  take  breath.  I shall 
receive  the  Cross  of  St.  Anne  after  the  expedition,  and  this 
isnT  such  a bad  place  after  all.  How  handsome  the 
women  are ! Our  captain — you  know  Sartow — a good  fellow, 
but  frightfully  stupid,  told  me  that  you  led  a most  secluded 
life,  associating  with  no  one.  I donT  wonder  you  hold 
yourself  aloof  from  the  officers.  In  fact,  I^m  glad  of  it;  I 
shall  see  all  the  more  of  you.  I am  staying  at  the  corpor- 
aPs.  What  a lovely  daughter  he^s  got!  Oustinka!  By 
Jove!  she^s  a beauty. 

Then  followed  a flood  of  French  and  Eussian  words — an 
echo  from  the  gay  world  that  Olenine  had  left  as  he  sup- 
posed forever.  People  in  general  considered  Beletsky  a 
charming  fellow,  and  he  probably  was,  but  Olenine  thought 
him  a terrible  bore  in  spite  of  his  frank,  handsome  face. 
He  brought  with  him  the  unwholesome  atmosphere  from 
which  Olenine  had  fled;  and  what  vexed  him  most  was  that 
he  had  not  courage  to  reject  these  overtures  of  friendship, 
thus  proving  that  the  society  in  which  he  had  formerly 
moved  still  preserved  an  incontestable  claim  upon  him. 
He  was  angry  with  Beletsky  and  with  himself;  nevertheless 
he  found  himself  unconsciously  introducing  French  phrases 
into  the  conversation  and  feigning  an  interest  in  the  com- 
mander-in-chief  and  sundry  Moscow  acquaintances.  But 


98 


THE  (:OSSA(^KS. 


though  he  treated  Beletsky  in  a friendly  way  and  invited 
him  to  call  often,  and  promised  to  return  his  visit  soon,  he 
did  not  go,  though  Vania  thoroughly  approved  of  the  new- 
comer, and  declared  him  a perfect  gentleman. 

Beletsky  immediately  fell  into  the  mode  of  life  common 
to  all  wealthy  young  officers.  At  the  end  of  a month  one 
would  have  supposed  he  had  spent  his  life  in  the  Caucasus. 
He  got  the  old  men  drunk,  gave  entertainments,  spent  his 
evenings  at  the  houses  of  the  Cossack  girls,  and  boasted  of 
his  conquests.  The  Cossacks,  thinking  it  only  natural  that 
a young  man  should  be  fond  of  women  and  of  wine,  took  a 
great  fancy  to  him,  and  infinitely  preferred  him  to  Olenine, 
who  seemed  to  them  a living  enigma. 


CHAPTEK  XXIV. 

It  was  five  o^clock  in  the  morning;  Vania  was  boiling 
the  tea-kettle  on  the  porch,  and  Olenine  had  gone  to  the 
Terek  to  give  his  horse  a bath  in  the  river.  Old  Oulita 
was  in  her  kitchen;  her  daughter  had  not  finished  milking 
the  buffalo  cow.  Stand  still,  you  beast  she  was  say- 
ing, and  following  the  words  came  the  regular  fiow  of  milk 
into  the  pail. 

The  ring  of  ahorse^shoofs  resounded  near  the  house,  and 
Olenine,  mounted  on  his  handsome  gray  horse,  still  wet 
from  the  bath,  approached  the  gate.  Marianna  put  out 
her  head,  swathed  in  a red  handkerchief,  then  hastily  with- 
drew it.  Olenine  had  on  a red  silk  shirt,  a white  Cossack 
coat  belted  about  the  waist,  and  a tall  cap.  He  sat  rather 
stiffly  on  his  well-fed  horse,  and  thought  himself  a true 
mountaineer  in  appearance;  but  in  this  he  was  greatly 
mistaken,  for  the  practiced  eye  of  the  Cossack  instantly  de- 
tected the  soldier  beneath  this  disguise.  Seeing  the  young 
girPshead,  he  leaped  lightly  over  the  hedge,  cutting  the  air 
with  liis  whip. 

Js  tea  ready,  Vania?’^  lie  cried,  gayly,  but  without 


THE  COSSACKS. 


99 


glancing  toward  the  stable.  He  hoped  that  the  lovely  face 
of  Marianna  would  reappear^  but  he  dared  not  turn  toward 
her  himself. 

He  entered  his  cottage^  but  only  to  emerge  from  it  a 
moment  afterward  with  his  book  and  pipe.  He  did  not 
intend  to  go  out  again  until  after  dinner,  but  to  devote  the 
day  to  writing  some  long-deferred  letters,  yet  he  felt  un- 
willing to -leave  the  porch,  the  house  seemed  so  like  a 
prison.  The  old  woman  finished  making  her  fire;  the 
daughter  drove  the  cattle  to  pasture,  and  Olenine  read  on, 
though  without  understanding  a word  of  the  book  that  lay 
open  before  him,  for  he  was  continually  glancing  up  from 
it  to  watch  the  young  and  blooming  girl  whose  every  move- 
ment was  full  of  a wild  and  untutored  grace. 

It  was  a real  pleasure  to  see  the  ease  and  grace  with 
which  she  stooped  in  the  performance  of  her  rough  task  of 
collecting  the  refuse  around  the  fence.  Her  loose  pink 
gown  covered  her  shoulders  closely,  but  when  she  straight- 
ened herself  up  the  perfect  contour  of  her  bosom  and  slen- 
der limbs  was  plainly  visible  through  the  thin  garment. 
Her  slender  feet,  incased  in  shabby  red  slippers,  retained 
their  shapeliness  of  form  unimpaired  as  she  walked,  her 
strong  arms  plied  the  rake  vigorously,  one  might  almost 
have  said  angrily,  and  she  cast  an  occasional  glance  at 
Olenine  from  beneath  her  heavy  brows,  a glance  in  which 
her  pleasure  at  being  admired  and  a conviction  of  her 
beauty  were  quite  apparent. 

Have  you  been  up  long,  Olenine  asked  Beletsky, 
entering  the  court-yard  in  full  uniform. 

Why,  Beletsky,  how  do  you  happen  to  be  abroad  at 
this  early  hour?^^ 

I was  turned  out  of  house  and  home.  There  is  to  be 
a party  at  our  house  to-night.  You^re  coming,  arenT  you, 
Marianna?^ ^ he  shouted  to  the  young  girl. 

Olenine  was  astonished  that  his  friend  should  dare  to 
address  the  girl  so  familiarly.  Marianna  pretended  not  to 


100 


THE  COSSACKS. 


have  heard  the  question^  however,  and  shouldering  her 
rake  retreated  to  the  house. 

^^Hqw  shy  she  is  this  morning/^  cried  Beletsky,  gayly, 
as  he  mounted  the  steps.  It  must  be  your  presence  that 
makes  her  so.^^ 

Who  is  going  to  give  the  party?  Who  turned  you  out 
of  doors?^^ 

Oustinka,  my  landlady's  daughter.  You  are  invited. 
We^re  going  to  have  a fine  time;  that  is  to  say,  we’re  going 
to  have  some  cake  and  a crowd  of  girls.  ” 

But  how  are  we  to  amuse  ourselves?” 

Beletsky  smiled  mischievously,  winked  and  motioned 
with  his  head  toward  the  cottage,  in  which  Marianna  had 
just  taken  refuge. 

Olenine  shrugged  his  shoulders  and  blushed  deeply. 

You  must  be  out  of  your  senses!”  he  exclaimed, 
angrily. 

Nonsense!  You  needn’t  try  to  fool  me.” 

Olenine  frowned  darkly.  Beletsky  noticed  it,  and  smiled 
with  an  insinuating  air. 

And  why  not?”  he  asked.  You  live  in  the  same  house 
almost,  and  she’s  a fine  girl — a regular  beauty,  and  no 
mistake.  ” 

Yes,  I have  never  seen  her  equal  in  beauty.” 

Then  what’s  your  objection?”  asked  Beletsky,  entire- 
ly in  the  dark. 

It  may  seem  strange  to  you,”  replied  Olenine,  ^‘but  I 
don’t  see  why  I should  not  tell  you  the  truth.  Since  I 
have  been  living  here  I have  not  so  much  as  spoken  to  a 
woman,  and  I’ve  got  on  very  comfortably,  I assure  you. 
Besides,  what  is  there  in  common  between  these  women 
and  ourselves?  With  Jerochka,  it  is  quite  another  thing. 
A love  of  hunting  draws  us  together.” 

‘‘Well,  J call  tliat  a good  joke.  What  was  there  in 
common  between  Madame  Amalie  and  me,  I should  like  to 
know?  If  you  said  that  these  women  were  not  very  clean 


THE  COSSACKS.  101 

I should  admit  the  truth  of  your  statement;  but  when 
you^re  among  Komans,  you  must  do  as  Eomans  do/^ 

I have  never  had  any  dealings  with  your  Madame 
Amalie/^  replied  Olenine.  One  can^t  respect  a person 
like  that^  but  I do  respect  this  girl. 

Eespect  her  as  much  as  you  please;  I^m  sure  no  one 
has  any  desire  to  prevent  it. 

Olenine  took  no  notice  of  the  jest.  He  was  evidently 
anxious  to  finish  what  he  had  to  say  on  the  subject. 

I know  that  I am  an  exception  to  the  general  rule/^ 
he  continued^  though  not  without  some  embarrassment. 

I am  so  constituted  that  I do  not  feel  tempted  to  violate 
my  principles  in  these  matters,  and  I could  hardly  act 
otherwise  than  I do.  I should  not  be  as  happy  as  I am 
now  if  I followed  your  example. 

Beletsky  lifted  his  eyebrows  with  an  incredulous  air. 

Never  mind;  come  over  to-night  all  the  same/^  he  re- 
plied. Marianka  will  be  there,  and  you  can  make  her 
acquaintance.  Come,  I beg  of  you.  If  you  don^t  enjoy 
yourself  you  can  leave  early.  Won’t  you  come?’^ 

I would,  but  to  tell  the  truth  I^m  afraid  of  being  led 
astray.  ^ ^ 

^'Ha,  ha!’^  cried  Beletsky,  evidently  thinking  this  a 
good  joke.  Come,  I’ll  take  care  of  you.  Promise  me, 
now.” 

Perhaps  I will.” 

Think  of  it;  here  you  are,  surrounded  by  lovely  women 
— the  loveliest  women  in  the  world,  I do  believe — and  yet 
you  lead  the  life  of  a monk.  How  absurd  not  to  accept 
the  blessings  the  gods  provide,  and  be  thankful.  Have 
you  heard  that  our  company  is  to  be  sent  to  Vozdvijen- 
sky?” 

That  is  not  at  all  probable,”  said  Olenine.  I heard 
it  was  Company  Eight  that  was  to  go.  ” 

No;  I’ve  received  a letter  from  the  aid-de-camp,  and 
be  writes  that  the  prince  himself  will  take  part  in  the  cam- 


102 


THE  COSSACKS. 


paign.  I shall  be  glad  to  go.  I^m  beginning  to  get  tired 
of  this  life.-’^ 

They  say  the  expedition  will  start  soon.'^^ 

I donT  know  anything  about  that;,  but  I do  know  that 
K received  the  Cross  of  St.  Anne  for  the  last  cam- 

paign. He  expected  to  be  made  a colonel,  and  he  must  be 
terribly  disappointed/^  said  Beletsky,  laughing. 


CHAPTEE  XXV. 

The  invitation  Olenine  had  received  troubled  him  not  a 
little.  He  wanted  to  accept  it,  but  he  was  alarmed  at  the 
thought  of  the  possible  consequences.  He  would  meet  no 
old  women  and  aged  hunters  there,  but  only  young  girls. 
What  would  the  consequences  be?  How  should  he  act? 
What  should  he  say?  What  possible  congeniality  could 
there  be  between  him  and  these  young  Cossack  girls? 

He  trembled  at  the  mere  thought  of  finding  himself  in 
the  same  room  with  Marianna,  and  of  talking  with  her, 
though  this  seemed  almost  an  impossibility  when  he  re- 
membered her  majestic  manner.  Still,  Beletsky  had  de- 
clared that  nothing  could  be  more  simple. 

I should  really  like  to  know  how  Beletsky  will  behave 
toward  Marianna?^^  he  said  to  himself;  ^^but  no,  I had 
better  not  go.^’ 

He  continued  to  debate  the  question  in  his  own  mind, 
but  finally  concluding  that  he  was  bound  to  some  extent 
by  the  partial  promise  he  had  given,  he  started  out  with- 
out having  come  to  any  final  decision,  but  on  reaching 
Beletsky^s  lodgings  he  entered. 

The  cottage  was  similar  to  that  occupied  by  Olenine.  It 
stood  upon  piles  and  contained  only  two  rooms.  In  one 
there  was  (juite  an  imioosing  display  of  feather  beds,  rugs 
and  (coverlets.  ^Die  walls  were  adorned  with  copper  basins 
and  weapons  of  divers  kinds,  and  the  space  under  the 
benclies  was  filled  with  gourds  and  water-melons.  There 


THE  COSSACKS. 


103 


was  an  enormous  stove  in  the  adjoining  room^  as  well  as 
several  tables  and  benches.  It  was  in  this  room  that  Be- 
letsky had  placed  his  camp-bed^  trunks^  toilet  articles  and 
pictures.  A silk  dressing-gown  was  lying  on  the  bench. 
Beletsky,  who  was  a handsome,  wholesome  looking  fellow, 
was  lying  on  the  bed  in  his  shirt  sleeves,  reading  the 

Three  Musketeers. 

He  sprung  up  instantly. 

am  glad  you  came!  See  how  nicely  I am  fixed. 
Everybody  is  terribly  busy  yet.  Guess  what  the  cake  is 
made  of?  Of  pork  and  raisins.  They  havenT  got  things 
quite  ready  yet.  See  what  an  exciting  time  they  are  hav- 
ing.’’ 

Glancing  out  of  the  window  one  could  see  that  an  extra- 
ordinary state  of  excitement  prevailed  in  the  landlady's  cot- 
tage, and  a number  of  girls  were  continually  running  in 
and  out. 

Will-you  be  ready  soon?^''  cried  Beletsky. 

In  a minute.  Are  you  so  dreadfully  hungry  that  you 
canT  wait  any  longer?'’^ 

Oustinka,  plump  and  rosy,  with  her  sleeves  rolled  high 
above  her  dimpled  elbows,  ran  into  Beletsky^s  apartments 
a few  minutes  afterward  to  borrow  some  plates. 

Stop,  youTl  make  me  break  the  dishes,’^  she  cried 
shrilly,  as  Beletsky  tried  to  hug  her  as  she  passed.  You 
ought  to  come  and  help  us,^^  she  said  laughingly  to  Olenine. 

Did  you  bring  us  any  goodies?^^ 

Has  Marianka  come?^'’  inquired  Beletsky. 

Yes,  indeed.  She  brought  us  a splendid  pie.""^ 

Do  you  know  ti^  if  Oustinka  were  dressed  differently, 
and  would  tidy  herself  up  a little,  she  would  put  all  our 
Russian  beauties  to  shame?  Did  you  ever  see  that  Cossack 

woman,  Madame  B ? She  married  a colonel,  and 

what  wonderful  dignity  of  manner  she  has!  Where  she 
got  it  I can^t  imagine/^ 


104 


THE  COSSACKS. 


I never  saw  her^  but  it  seems  to  me  that  nothing  could 
be  more  beautiful  than  the  national  costume. 

I can  adapt  myself  to  any  mode  of  life  fortunately/^ 
said  Beletsky^  cheerfully.  I think  1^11  run  over  and  see 
what  the  girls  are  doing. 

And  throwing  on  his  dressing-gown,  he  darted  out  of  the 
room. 

I^’ll  leave  you  to  attend  to  the  dessert/^  he  cried,  as  he 
disappeared. 

Olenine  sent  his  orderly  out  to  purchase  some  ginger- 
bread and  honey.  As  he  handed  him  the  money  his  heart 
revolted.  It  seemed  to  him  that  he  was  bribing  some  one, 
and  he  could  hardly  answer  the  soldier  when  he  inqiiked 
what  kind  of  cakes  he  should  buy,  and  how  many. 

Buy  whatever  you  think  proper,  he  replied. 

Am  I to  spend  all  the  money — all  of  it?  Mint  cakes 
are  the  dearest.  They  cost  sixty  kopecks  a pound. 

Yes,  spend  all  of  it— all  of  it,^^  answered  Olenine. 

He  seated  himself  by  the  window,  and  was  surprised  to 
find  that  his  heart  was  throbbing  wildly. 

He  heard  the  cries  and  laughing  exclamations  excited  by 
Beletsky^s  unexpected  appearance  among  the  girls,  and  in 
a few  moments  saw  his  friend  come  fiying  down  the  steps, 
followed  by  peals  of  laughter. 

They  drove  me  out,^^  he  exclaimed. 

A moment  later  Oustinka  entered  and  solemnly  invited 
the  young  men  to  the  feast,  declaring  that  everything  was 
now  in  readiness. 

When  they  reached  the  scene  of  the  festivities  Oustinka 
was  giving  the  finishing  touches  to  th^eather  beds  ranged 
along  the  wall.  On  the  table  was  a cloth  that  was  much 
too  small.  A pitcher  oi  wine  and  a dried  fish  occupied  the 
jilace  of  horjor  in  the  center  of  tlie  board.  The  odor  of  the 
pie  and  of  raisins  was  very  perceptible.  Tlio  young  girls, 
in  riclily  embroidered  jackets,  and  without  the  traditional 


THE  COSSACKS.  105 

handkerchief^  were  huddled  behind  the  stove,  whispering 
and  giggling. 

Olenine  instantly  recognized  Marianna  in  the  group  of 
girls,  who  were  all  pretty,  without  exception.  He  felt  ill 
at  ease,  however,  and  decided  to  imitate  Beletsky.  That 
young  gentleman  gravely  approached  the  table,  poured  out 
a glass  of  wine  with  the  utmost  assurance,  and  invited  all 
present  to  join  him  in  drinking  to  the  health  of  their  host- 
ess. Oustinka  declared  that  girls  did  not  take  wine. 

We  could  if  we  had  some  honey,  cried  a voice  from 
the  group. 

The  old  soldier,  who  had  just  returned  from  his  foraging 
expedition,  was  summoned.  It  was  hard  to  say  whether 
the  furtive  glance  with  which  he  surveyed  the  company  was 
one  of  envy  or  contempt.  He  handed  over  the  dainties, 
and  was  about  to  explain  about  the  price  and  the  change, 
when  Beletsky  unceremoniously  ordered  him  out. 

After  mixing  the  honey  with  the  wine,  which  had  already 
been  poured  into  the  glasses,  Beletsky  rather  ostentatiously 
placed  three  large  cakes  of  ginger-bread  on  the  table, 
dragged  the  girls  out  from  their  retreat  by  main  force,  and 
seated  them  at  the  table. 

Olenine  could  not  but  notice  that  Marianna  seized  two 
pieces  of  ginger-bread  in  her  little  sunburned  hand,  and 
that  she  did  not  know  what  to  do  with  them.  The  con- 
versation was  constrained,  in  spite  of  the  young  men^s  at- 
tempts to  entertain  and  enliven  the  company.  Olenine  was 
embarrassed,  and  racked  his  brain  to  find  something  to  say. 
He  felt  that  he  was  an  object  of  curiosity,  and  that  the 
girls  were  secretly  laughing  at  him.  He  blushed,  and 
somehow  fancied  th^t  Marianna  felt  much  less  at  ease  than 
any  of  the  others. 

They  will  probably  expect  us  to  give  them  some 
money, he  thought.  How  are  we  to  do  it?  I wish  it 
were  over,  and  we  could  get  away. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


lOH 


CHAPTER  XXVL 

“What!  is  it  possible  that  you  donT  know  your 
lodger asked  Beletsky,  turning  to  Marianna. 

“ How  should  I know  him  when  he  never  comes  to  see 
us?^^  replied  Marianna,  with  a glance  at  Olenine. 

Olenine,  frightened,  blushing,  and  at  a loss  what  to  say, 
stammered  out: 

“ I^m  afraid  of  your  mother.  She  received  me  with  such 
a torrent  of  abuse  the  first  time  I presented  myself  that 
rye  never  dared  to  repeat  the  visit. 

Marianna  burst  into  a hearty  laugh. 

“ So  youVe  been  afraid  to  come,  have  you?^^  she  said, 
looking  at  him,  and  then  turning  away. 

It  was  the  first  time  that  Olenine  had  ever  had  a good 
look  at  the  young  girPs  face,  for  until  now  he  had  seen  it 
shrouded  to  the  eyes  in  a handkerchief.  There  could  be 
no  doubt  that  she  was  the  handsomest  girl  in  the  village. 
Oustinka  was  pretty,  fresh  and  rosy.  She  had  mischievous 
brown  eyes,  smiling  red  lips,  and  was  always  talking  and 
laughing;  but  Marianna  was  something  more  than  a pretty 
girl — she  was  a beauty.  Her  features  would  have  seemed 
too  marked  and  too  large,  perhaps,  had  it  not  been  for  her 
tall,  graceful  form,  superbly  developed  bust  and  shoulders, 
and  above  all  the  tender  yet  rather  severe  expression  of  her 
almond-shaped  black  eyes,  fringed  with  long,  curling 
lashes,  and  the  caressing  smile  that  curved  her  lips.  She 
did  not  smile  often,  but  her  smile  never  failed  to  charm. 
She  was  the  very  personification  of  youth  and  health.  The 
other  girls  were  pretty,  but  she  far  surpassed  them  all,  but 
tliey  and  ]>(3letsky  and  the  old  soldier  who  had  bought  the 
cake  all  involuntarily  turned  to  Marianna;  and  when  one 
talked  to  the  young  girls  it  was  always  Marianna  that  one 


THE  COSSACKS.  107 

addressed.  She  looked  like  a proad,  happy  young  queen, 
surrounded  by  her  subjects. 

Beletsky  spared  no  pains  to  make  the  evening  pass  pleas- 
antly. He  jested  familiarly  with  the  girls,  and  expatiated 
to  Olenine  in  French  upon  Marianka^s  beauty,  calling  her 
his  sweetheart  and  urging  his  friend  to  follow  his  example. 
Olenine  became  more  and  more  uncomfortable,  and  was 
endeavoring  to  devise  some  excuse  for  leaving  when  Belet- 
sky declared  that  Oustinka  must  drink  a glass  of  wine  with 
them,  and  kiss  them  in  honor  of  her  birthday. 

She  finally  consented,  on  condition  that  the  young  men 
put  some  money  on  her  plate,  according  to  the  custom  at 
weddings. 

^^What  foul  fiend  induced  me  to  come  to  this  cursed 
place?"’"'  thought  Olenine,  rising  to  go;  but  Beletsky  seized 
him  by  the  ^rm,  and  asked  him  where  he  was  going. 

After  some  tobacco,^^  he  replied,  curtly. 

Don"’t  go;  IVe  got  some  money, whispered  Beletsky. 

I can’t  leave,  for  I too  must  pay  something,’^  thought 
Olenine,  enraged  at  himself  for  his  own  awkwardness. 

Why  can’t  I do  as  Beletsky  does?”  he  said  to  himself. 
^^Of  course  I ought  not  to  have  come  at  all,  but  having 
come,  it’s  not  worth  while  to  spoil  the  pleasure  of  others, 
so  let  us  drink  and  be  merry  in  true  Cossack  fashion.” 

And  picking  up  a huge  wooden  mug  that  held  at  least 
eight  glasses,  he  filled  iit  with  wine  and  drained  it  almost 
at  a draught.  The  girls  looked  at  him  with  astonishment, 
and  even  alarm.  It  seemed  strange  and  even  improper  to 
them.  Oustinka  poured  out  another  glass  for  each  of  the 
young  men,  and  kissed  them  both  heartily. 

Now  we’ll  have  some  fun!”  she  exclaimed,  rattling  the 
four  rubles  they  had  placed  on  her  plate. 

It’s  your  turn  now,  Marianna,  to  give  us  some  wine 
and  a kiss!”  cried  Beletsky,  seizing  the  girl  by  the  arm. 

You’ll  have  to  wait  for  the  kiss,”  she  cried,  gayly, 
shaking  her  fist  at  him. 


108 


THE  COSSACKS. 


One  can  surely  kiss  one^s  grandfather  without  paying 
for  the  privilege  exclaimed  one  of  the  girls. 

Who  is  it  thak’s  so  witty?^^  cried  Beletsky,  kissing 
Marianna  in  spite  of  her  struggles. 

Now  give  us  some  wine,  or  at  least  offer  some  to  your 
lodger,  he  remarked,  gayly. 

As  he  spoke,  he  took  the  girl  by  the  hand  and  seated  her 
on  the  bench  beside  Olenine. 

How  beautiful  she  is!^""  he  remarked,  turning  her  head 
so  Olenine  could  see  her  profile. 

Marianna  allowed  him  to  do  so  with  a proud  smile,  and 
gave  Olenine  a long  look  out  of  her  beautiful  eyes. 

She^s  a superb  creature,^^  repeated  Beletsky. 

Am  I beautiful?^^  the  eyes  of  the  young  girl  seemed  to 

aski 

Olenine,  scarcely  realizing  what  he  was  doing,  passed  his 
arm  around  Marianna^s  waist,  and  was  about  to  kiss  her 
when  she  freed  herself  with  a sudden  jerk,  nearly  overturn- 
ing both  Beletsky  and  the  table,  and  ran  behind  the  stove. 
Loud  exclamations  and  laughter  resounded  on  every  side. 
Beletsky  suddenly  whispered  something  to  the  girls,  and 
they  all  darted  out  of  the  room  after  him,  locking  the  door 
behind  them. 

Why  do  you  kiss  Beletsky,  but  refuse  to  kiss  me?^^ 
asked  Olenine. 

I don^t  want  to,  that  is  all,^^  she  replied  with  a slight 
pout.  He^s  only  grandfather,  you  know,^^  she  added, 
laughing;  then  approaching  the  door,  she  began  to  shake  it 
and  call  out:  What  did  you  lock  the  door  for,  you  tor- 
ments.^^^ 

Let  them  stay  where  they  are;  we  don^t  want  them,^^ 
said  Olenine,  springing  toward  her. 

She  frowned  and  motioned  him  back  with  a haughty 
gesture.  Indeed,  she  was  so  majestically  beautiful  that 
Olenine  felt  asliamed  of  himself,  and  began  to  rap  and  shake 
tlie  door  in  his  turn. 


Me  COSSACKS* 


109 


I say,  Beletsky,  what  do  you  mean  by  this  foolish- 
ness?^^ he  cried.  Open  the  door,  open  the  door,  I say!^^ 

Marianna  began  to  laugh  her  frank,  joyous  laugh. 

What!  are  you  afraid  of  me?^^  she  cried. 

You  may  prove  as  dangerous  as  your  mother. 

You  ought  to  spend  more  time  with  Jerochka.  That 
will  perhaps  make  you  more  fond  of  the  girls. 

Her  face  was  close  to  his,  and  she  smiled  mischievously. 
Olenine  did  not  know  what  to  say. 

What  if  I should  come  to  see  you?^^  he  asked,  hastily. 

That  would  be  quite  another  thing,  she  replied,  shak- 
ing her  head. 

J ust  then  Beletsky  threw  open  the  door,  and  Marianna^ 
springing  toward  Olenine,  tried  to  push  him  aside. 

My  ideas  about  self-denial  and  love  and  self-sacrifice 
are  all  nonsense!  Happiness  is  the  only  thing  that  is  reah 
after  all;  and  the  man  who  enjoys  himself  most  is  the 
wisest  man!’^  These  thoughts  darted  through  Olenine^s 
brain  with  the  rapidity  of  lightning;  and  seizing  Marianna 
with  a violence  of  which  he  was  scarcely  conscious,  he 
kissed  her  passionately  on  cheek  and  brow.  She  evinced 
no  anger,  however,  but  burst  into  a laugh  and  ran  off  to 
rejoin  her  companions.  * 

This  ended  the  little  entertainment,  for  just  then  Oustin- 
ka^s  mother  returned  unexpectedly,  and  after  scolding  the 
girls  roundly,  sent  them  all  home. 


CHAPTEE  XXVIL 

Yes,^^  thought  Olenine,  as  he  wended  his  way  home- 
ward, if  I yielded  to  my  inclinations,  I should  fall  madly 
in  love  with  that  Cossack  girl.^^ 

He  went  to  bed  with  this  thought  uppermost  in  his  mind, 
though  he  was  all  the  while  saying  to  himself  that  this 
fancy  would  soon  die  a natural  death  and  that  he  would 
then  resume  his  old  life. 


no 


THE  COSSACKS. 


He  was  mistaken  in  this,  however.  His  relations  with 
Marianna  had  undergone  a change;  the  barrier  between 
them  had  been  swept  away,  and  Olenine  spoke  to  the  girl 
whenever  he  met  her. 

The  cornet,  after  receiving  the  first  month^s  rent,  felt 
assured  of  Olenine^s  wealth  and  generosity,  and  invited  him 
to  his  house;  and  as  Marianna^ s mother  now  treated  him 
quite  civilly,  he  fell  into  the  habit  of  spending  his  evenings 
there  after  Oustinka^s  little  party.  There  was  no  apparent 
change  in  his  manner  of  life,  but  the  wildest  confusion 
reigned  in  his  soul.  He  spent  his  days  in  the  forest,  re- 
turning about  twilight,  and  then  repairing  to  his  landlord's 
cottage,  sometimes  alone,  sometimes  in  company  with 
Jerochka.  The  family  had  become  so  accustomed  to  see- 
ing him  there  that  his  absence  rather  surprised  them.  He 
paid  liberally  for  the  wine  he  drank,  and  was  very  quiet 
and  unobtrusive  in  manner.  Vania  usually  brought  over 
his  tea,  which  he  sipped  in  a corner  of  the  room  near  the 
stove.  The  old  woman  went  on  with  her  work,  apparently 
unconscious  of  his  presence.  Sometimes  he  talked  with  his 
host  or  with  the  neighbors  about  Eussia;  sometimes  he 
took  a book  and  read.  Marianna  usually  sat  curled  up  in 
front  of  the  stove  ♦or  in  a corner  of  the  room.  She  never 
took  any  part  in  the  conversation;  but  Olenine  could  see 
her  eyes  following  his  every  movement,  could  hear  the 
cracking  of  the  sunflower  seeds  she  was  continually  crunch- 
ing, and  knew  that  she  was  listening  to  him  attentively; 
and  when,  on  glancing  up  from  his  book,  he  saw  the  fire 
blazing  in  her  eyes,  words  failed  him,  and  he  could  only 
gaze  at  her  in  silence.  In  the  presence  of  a third  party  she 
was  always  pleasant  and  civil  to  him;  but  as  soon  as  they 
were  left  alone  she  became  positively  rude.  Still  he  asked 
nothing  and  expected  nothing;  the  presence  of  this  young 
girJ  was  only  becoming  more  and  more  necessury  to  him. 

His  i)ast  was  well-nigli  forgotten  now;  he  never  thought 
for  an  instant  of  any  future  not  connected  with  his  present 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Ill 


existence.  He  was  astonished  at  the  rather  commiserating 
tone  of  letters  received  from  friends  who  seemed  to  fancy 
his  existence  a most  forlorn  and  wretched  one^  while  he 
sincerely  pitied  all  who  were  not  leading  a life  like  his  own. 
He  persuaded  himself  that  he  should  never  repent  of  hav- 
ing broken  away  from  his  former  life.  He  had  felt  happy 
even  during  his  campaigns;  but  here^  under  Jerochka^s 
protecting  wing,  and  in  the  shadow  of  the  primeval  forest, 
he  realized  all  the  hollowness  of  his  former  life,  which  now 
seemed  to  him  unutterably  wretched  and  absurd.  Every 
day  he  felt  that  he  was  becoming  more  and  more  of  a man, 
and  less  of  a slave.  The  Caucasus  had  not  equaled  his  ex- 
pectations in  some  respects,  and  differed  widely  from  the 
descriptions  he  had  read  of  it  in  romances.  There  are  no 
great  heroes  or  terrible  villains  here,^^  he  thought.  Men 
merely  live  here  in  strict  accordance  with  the  laws  of  nature. 
They  increase  and  multiply,  they  fight,  eat,  drink,  enjoy 
life,  and  die  conscious  of  no  laws  save  those  which  nature 
also  imposes  upon  the  sunlight,  upon  vegetation,  and  upon 
animals.  There  are  no  other  laws.""^ 

These  men  seemed  to  him  far  better,  freer,  and  more 
energetic  than  himself.  When  he  compared  himself  with 
them  he  was  filled  with  shame.  Sometimes  he  even 
thought  of  severing  all  connection  with  the  past,  of  joining 
the  Cossacks,  purchasing  a cottage  and  some  cattle,  and 
marrying  a Cossack  girl,  though  not  Marianna — he  relin- 
quished her  to  Lukashka — of  living  with  Jerochka,  and  of 
going  hunting  and  fishing  with  him,  as  well  as  on  expedi- 
tions with  the  Cossacks. 

Why  should  he  hesitate?  What  was  he  waiting  for?  He 
felt  ashamed  of  his  cowardice.  Why  should  I be  ashamed 
to  lead  a sensible  hfe?^^  he  thought.  What  is  the  harm 
in  wishing  to  become  a Cossack,  to  live  in  accordance  with 
the  laws  of  nature,  to  injure  no  one,  but,  on  the  contrary, 
do  good  to  others?  Certainly  that  is  better  than  the 


112 


THE  COSSACKS. 


dreams  of  former  years,  when  I looked  forward  to  becomhig 
a minister  or  the  commander  of  a regiment 
But  an  inward  voice  whispered  to  him  to  wait,  that  there 
was  no  haste.  He  vaguely  felt  that  Jerochka^s  mode  of 
life  would  not  content  him;  that  there  was  another  and 
very  different  kind  of  happiness  known  as  devotion  and 
self-sacrifice.  He  had  never  ceased  to  rejoice  at  what  he 
had  done  for  Lukashka,  and  he  tried  hard  to  find  some 
other  opportunity  for  self-sacrifice,  though  without  success. 
Sometimes  he  forgot  this  means  of  happiness  and  tried  to 
live  like  Jerochka;  but  he  soon  thought  better  of  it  and 
again  began  to  cherish  more  lofty  and  ennobling  aspirations. 


OHAPTEK  XXVIII. 

Shoetly  before  the  vintage  Lukashka  rode  into  the  vil- 
lage, looking  handsomer  than  ever. 

When  is  the  wedding  to  be?^^  inquired  Olenine,  who 
chanced  to  meet  him. 

Lukashka  took  no  notice  of  the  question,  however. 

I swapped  your  horse  on  the  other  side  of  the  river, 
he  remarked.  This  is  a genuine  Kabarda.  I^'m  a pretty 
good  judge  of  horsefiesh,  I think. 

The  two  young  men  examined  the  new  horse  together. 
It  was  a remarkably  handsome  animal — a dark  bay,  with  a 
lustrous  coat,  and  a long  silky  mane  and  tail.  His  hoofs, 
eyes  and  teeth  were  perfect,  and  attested  to  the  purity  of 
his  lineage.  Olenine  went  into  raptures  over  him;  he  had 
not  seen  his  equal  in  the  Caucasus. 

^^And  his  gait!^^  exclaimed  Lukashka.  You  should 
see  his  action;  besides  he^s  the  most  intelligent  animal  I 
ever  saw!^^ 

Did  you  have  to  give  much  to  boot?^^  inquired  Olenine. 

I doiiT  know.  A friend  got  him  for  me,^^  replied 
Lukashka,  smiling. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


113 


a splendid  animal.  What  will  you  take  for 
him?^^  inquired  Olenine. 

IVe  been  offered  one  hundred  and  fifty  rubles  for  him; 
but  1^11  let  you  have  him  for  nothing.  Say  the  word  and 
he  is  yours. 

Not  for  the  world. 

Then  take  this  dagger  I brought  for  you.  I found  it 
on  the  other  side  of  the  river. 

Thanks. 

My  mother  will  soon  bring  you  the  grapes  I promised 
you.^’ 

It  is  hardly  worth  while.  WeTl  square  our  accounts 
some  day.  I^m  not  going  to  offer  you  anything  for  the 
dagger.’’ 

Certainly  not;  we  are  friends^  you  know.  Guirei- 
Khan  took  me  to  his  home  and  told  me  to  help  myself  to 
anything  I wanted^  so  I chose  the  dagger.  It  is  one  of  our 
customs^  you  know. 

They  went  into  the  cottage  and  took  a glass  of  wine  to- 
gether. 

“ Are  you  going  to  remain  long?^^  asked  Olenine. 

No,  I only  came  to  say  good-bye.  I am  going  across 
the  Terek  for  awhile.  My  friend  Nazarka  is  going  with 
me.^^ 

When  is  the  wedding  to  come  off 

I shall  return  soon  for  the  betrothal  and  then  rejoin 
my  comrades. 

What!  you  are  not  going  to  see  your  betrothed  before 
you  leave 

No.  Why  should  I?  When  you  start  out  on  the  cam- 
paign, inquire  at  the  sotnia  for  Lukashka  the  Broad. 
What  crowds  of  wild  boars  there  are  over  there!  I killed 
two,  not  long  ago,  and  I will  show  you  the  place. 

Lukashka  sprung  into  the  saddle,  and  without  even  pass- 
ing Marianna^ s house,  went  prancing  down  the  street  to 
the  corner,  where  Nazarka  was  awaiting  him. 


114 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Shall  we  go  over  there asked  Nazarka,  pointing  to 
Yamka^s  establishment. 

It  wouldn^t  be  a bad  idea.  Take  my  horse  over,  will 
you;  and  if  I^m  late  give  him  some  hay.  1^11  be  at  the 
outpost  before  daybreak.'’^ 

Has  the  color-bearer  made  you  another  present 

No,  I was  glad  to  get  off  with  giving  him  a dagger,  for 
he  wanted  the  horse, said  Lukashka,  dismounting  and 
handing  the  bridle  to  Nazarka. 

He  ran  back,  slipped  by  Olenine^s  window  unperceived, 
and  approached  the  cornet^s  cottage.  It  was  very  dark 
now,  and  Marianna  was  combing  her  hair  for  the  night. 

It  is  I,  Lukashka,  whispered  the  Cossack. 

The  girTs  rather  stern  and  indifferent  face  brightened  as 
she  heard  the  call,  and  opening  the  window  she  leaned  out, 
frightened  but  happy. 

What  do  you  want.^^^  she  asked. 

Let  me  come  in  for  a moment.'’^ 

As  he  spoke  he  took  her  face  in  his  two  hands  and  kissed 
her. 

Yes,  let  me  in;  I want  to  talk  with  you  a minute. 

Why  do  you  talk  such  nonsense?  I shall  do  nothing 
of  the  kind.  Are  you  going  to  be  away  long?^^ 

Who  are  you  talking  to,  Marianna?’^  cried  her  moth- 
er's voice. 

To  Lukashka.  He  wants  to  see  father. 

Tell  him  to  come  in. 

He  has  gone  now.  He  was  in  a great  hurry. 

Lukashka  beat  a heasty  retreat  to  Yamka^s,  bending 
almost  double  so  as  not  to  be  seen  when  he  passed  the  win- 
dows. No  one  saw  him  but  Olenine. 

There  he  took  several  glasses  of  wine  in  company  with 
Nazarka,  after  which  both  left  the  village.  The  night  was 
mild  aud  serene.  ''They  rode  on  in  silence;  the  ring  of  their 
horses^  hoofs  being  the  only  sound  that  broke  the  stillness 
of  the  night.  At  last  Lukashka  began  to  sing  the  song  of 


THE  COSSACKS. 


115 


the  Cossack  Mingal;  but  at  the  end  of  the  first  verse  he 
stopped,  and  turning  to  Nazarka,  said: 

She  wouldn^t  let  me  in. 

I was  sure  she  wouldn^t/^  replied  Nazarka.  Yamka 
told^me  to-night  that  the  color-bearer  almost  lives  there^ 
and  that  Jerochka  boasts  of  getting  a rifle  for  his  services 
in  the  matter. 

^^The  old  scoundrel  lies!^^  cried  Lukashka,  angrily. 

She  isn^t  that  kind  of  a girl.  Ifll  break  the  old  deviks 
ribs  for  him!^^  and  he  again  began  his  favorite  song. 


CHAPTEE  XXIX. 

The  betrothal  took  place.  Lukashka  came  to  the  vil- 
lage, but  did  not  call  on  Olenine,  and  the  latter  declined 
his  landlord's  invitation  to  witness  the  ceremony.  He  was 
more  depressed  in  spirits  than  he  had  been  since  his  arrival 
at  the  station. 

In  the  evening  he  saw  Lukashka  pass  in  gala  dress,  ac- 
companied by  his  mother,  on  their  way  to  the  cornet^s 
house.  The  coolness  with  which  Lukashka  treated  him 
annoyed  Olenine,  and  he  shut  himself  up  in  his  room  and 
occupied  himself  with  his  journal. 

I have  meditated  a great  deal,  and  changed  a great 
deal  during  the  last  few  months, he  wrote;  and  have 
gone  back  now  to  my  A B O^s.  To  be  loved,  the  person 
himself  must  love  with  entire  unselflshness,  love  everybody, 
spread  his  toils  on  every  side,  and  love  all  who  are  caught 
in  them.  It  is  in  this  way  I have  caught  in  my  net  Vania, 
Uncle  Jerochka,  Lukashka  and  Marianka.^^ 

Just  as  Olenine  finished  writing  these  words  Uncle 
Jerochka  entered.  He  was  in  the  best  possible  spirits. 
Several  days  before  Olenine  had  found  him  in  his  court- 
yard, knife  in  hand,  skinning  a wild  boar.  He  looked 
proud  and  happy;  his  dogs,  among  them  his  favorite. 
Lion,  were  lying  around  watching  him  and  wagging  their 


lie 


THE  COSSACKS. 


tails.  Some  little  boys  were  peeping  over  the  fence  at  him 
with  an  air  of  profound  respect^  not  mocking  him  accord- 
ing to  their  custom.  His  neighbors,  who  usually  troubled 
themselves  very  little  about  him,  spoke  to  him  politely  and 
brought  him,  one  a jug  of  wine,  another  a pot  of  Curd'S  or 
a loaf  of  bread.  The  next  morning  Jerochka,  all  spattered 
with  blood,  sat  enthroned  in  his  kitchen,  bartering  boards 
meat  for  wine  or  money.  His  face  seemed  to  say;  God 
has  granted  me  good  luck  at  last.  After  that  he  began 
to  drink,  and  drank  four  days  without  stopping.  At  the 
betrothal  he  had  again  drank  heavily,  and  he  was  con- 
siderably the  worse  for  liquor  when  he  entered  Olenine^s 
house.  His  face  was  a fiery  red,  and  his  hair  disheveled, 
but  he  was  gorgeous  to  behold,  in  a new  coat  elaborately 
trimmed  with  braid,  and  had  in  his  hand  a lalaldihal  * he 
had  borrowed  on  the  other  side  of  the  river.  He  had 
promised  to  give  Olenine  an  exhibition  of  his  skill  on  this 
instrument  some  time  before,  and  was  now  in  the  very  hu- 
mor for  it.  Seeing  that  Olenine  was  engaged  in  writing, 
his  face  suddenly  clouded,  and  he  threw  himself  down  on 
the  fioor,  that  being  his  favorite  seat  when  he  was  intoxi- 
cated. Olenine  glanced  up  at  him,  ordered  some  wine 
brought  in,  and  then  went  on  with  his  writing.  Uncle 
Jerochka  soon  became  tired  of  drinking  alone,  and  wanted 
to  talk. 

IVe  been  to  the  betrothal?^^  he  remarked.  What  a 
set  of  idiots  those  people  are!  I soon  got  tired  of  them, 
and  came  over  to  see  you. 

Where  did  you  get  your  halaldihal  inquired  Olenine, 
without  pausing  in  his  writing. 

‘‘  I was  on  the  other  side  of  the  river  a day  or  two  ago, 
and  picked  it  up  over  there.  I^m  a capital  performer  on 
the  instrumcjnt,  and  can  play  you  anything  you  want — a 
Tartar,  Cossack  or  soldier^s  song,  just  as  you  prefer. 

* A rougli  kind  of  guitar  with  three  strings. 


Ml:  COSSACICS. 

Olenine  glanced  up  with  a smile,  though  he  did  not  stop 
writing. 

The  smile  encouraged  the  old  man,  however; 

^‘Put  that  aside  now,  father,  put  that  aside,  he  ex- 
ciaimed>  peremptorily.  What  if  some  one  has  been 
troubling  you.  I wouldn ’t  bother  myself  about  it.  It^s  of 
no  consequence.^^ 

For  he  did  not  suppose  for  an  instant  that  a person 
would  write  for  any  other  object  than  to  get  the  better  of 
some  one. 

Olenine  burst  into  a hearty  laugh,  and  Uncle  Jerochka 
followed  his  example.  He  then  jumped  up  and  began  to 
display  his  skill  by  humming  some  snatches  from  Eussian 
and  Tartar  songs,  and  accompanying  himself  on  the  iala- 
Idikal, 

What^s  the  use  of  writing,  my  good  fellow.  Listen,  in- 
stead, to  what  I am  going  to  sing  to  you,^^  he  exclaimed. 

After  you^re  dead^  you  wonH  have  a chance  to  hear  any 
more  songs,  so  you^d  better  enjoy  yourself  while  you  can.^^ 
'He  first  sung  an  air  of  his  own  composition;  then  a song 
which  the  sergeant  had  taught  him,  and  which  ran  as  fol- 
lows: 

‘‘  On  Monday  I fell  in  love, 

On  Tuesday  suffered  martyrdom, 

On  Wednesday  avowed  my  passion, 

All  Thursday  longed  for  an  answer. 

And  on  Friday  I received  it. 

She  told  me  there  was  no  hope  for  me, 

So  all  Saturday  I planned  to  end  my  life. 

But  I changed  my  mind  on  Sunday.'* 

After  refreshing  himself  with  three  more  glasses  of  wine, 
he  began  a stirring  Cossack  song,  but  in  the  middle  of  it 
his  voice  broke,  and  he  had  to  abandon  the  attempt,  though 
he  continued  the  accompaniment. 

Ah,  my  friend he  exclaimed,  after  a moment. 

Olenine  turned,  struck  by  an  unwonted  tone  in  the  old 


118 


THE  COSSACKS. 


man^s  voice.  The  old  Cossack  was  weeping.  Big  tears 
were  rolling  down  his  wrinkled  cheeks. 

My  youth  has  gone  forever;  it  will  return  no  more 
he  sobbed.  Drink,  then^  drink!  Drown  the  unhappy 
thought  in  drink/^  he  roared  out  suddenly,  and  without 
drying  his  tears. 

One  Circassian  song  was  a great  favorite  with  him.  It 
was  short  and  its  principal  charm  consisted  in  a melancholy 
refrain:  ^^Ai!  dai!  dalalai!^^ 

Jerochka  translated  the  words  of  the  song  for  Olenine. 

A young  Circassian  went  to  the  mountains.  During  his 
absence  the  Eussians  came,  burned  the  village,  massacred 
the  men  and  carried  the  women  away  as  slaves.  The 
young  man  returns;  he  finds  the  place  deserted — village, 
father,  mother,  brother,  home  have  all  disappeared.  One 
solitary  tree  remains  standing.  He  seats  himself  beneath 
it,  and  gives  vent  to  his  grief  in  the  melancholy,  ^^Ai! 
dai!  dalalai!/^ 

The  old.  Cossack  repeated  this  refrain  several  times,  then 
springing  up,  seized  a rifie  that  was  hanging  on  the  wall, 
darted  out  of  the  cottage,  and  fired  off  both  barrels;  then 
he  repeated  Ai!  dai!  dalalai!^^  in  a still  sadder  tone  and 
became  silent. 

Olenine  had  followed  him  out  on  the  porch,  and  now 
stood  there  gazing  up  at  the  clear  sky,  thickly  studded  with 
stars.  The  cornet^s  cofctage  was  brilliantly  lighted,  and 
groups  of  young  girls  were  standing  on  the  porch,  on  the 
steps,  and  under  the  window.  Several  Cossacks  ran  out  of 
the  house  and  responded  to  the  shots,  and  to  the  chorus  of 
Jerochka^s  song,  with  the  usual  shrill  cries. 

‘‘Why  aren^t  you  at  the  betrothal  asked  Olenine. 

“Heaven  bless  them!  Heaven  bless  them  !^^  replied  the 
old  hunter,  wliose  feelings  had  evidently  been  wounded. 
“ J^ut  wliat  a miserable  set  they  are.  I canT  endure  them. 
Let  them  enjoy  tliemsclves  in  their  own  way,  and  weTl  do 
the  same.  ^SliahiT  we  go  back  into  the  house  now?^^ 


THE  COSSACKS. 


119 


Olenine  assented. 

Does  Lukashka  seem  very  happy?^^  he  asked.  Won^t 
he  stop  in^nd  see  me  as  he  goes  back?^^ 

Lukashka?  No.  People  have  told  him  that  I have 
been  trying  to  get  the  girl  for  you.  You  can  get  her  if 
you  want  her,  that  is  if  you  don^t  begrudge  a little  money. 
1^11  manage  it  for  you  if  you  want  me  to.^^ 

No,  no,  uncle,  money  is  of  no  use  in  a case  like  this. 
She  doesn^t  care  for  me.  It  isnH  worth  while  to  say  any 
more  about  it. 

No  one  loves  us,  poor  orphans  that  we  are!^^  mumbled 
Jerochka,  beginning  to  weep  again  in  a maudlin  way. 

Olenine  drank  rather  more  wine  than  usual  as  he  sat  lis- 
tening to  the  old  man^s  stories.  Lukashka  is  happy,  and 
I am  glad  of  it,^^  he  said  to  himself,  but  he  felt  terribly 
sad  and  depressed,  though  he  could  not  have  explained 
why.  The  old  Cossack  drank  so  much  that  he  fell  on  the 
floor,  and  Vania  was  obliged  to  call  in  some  soldiers  to  take 
him  away.  He  was  so  furious  at  the  old  hunter^s  unseem- 
ly conduct  that  he  even  forgot  to  air  his  French  on  the 
occasion. 


CHAPTER  XXX. 

It  was  August.  There  had  not  been  a cloud  in  the  sky 
for  several  days;  the  flerce  rays  of  the  sun  were  well  nigh 
intolerable,  and  the  scorching  breeze  that  had  been  blow- 
ing ever  since  early  morning  fllled  the  air  with  great  clouds 
of  dust  and  burning  sand  that  settled  thickly  upon  the 
reeds,  the  trees  and  the  roofs  of  the  houses.  The  grass 
and  leaves  were  thickly  coated  with  it,  and  the  fields  had 
become  baked  and  sere.  The  bed  of  the  Terek  was  nearly 
dry,  and  so  was  the  pond,  and  all  day  long  children 
splashed  about  in  the  little  water  that  remained.  The  wild 
beasts  had  left  the  banks  of  the  Terek,  and  taken  refuge  in 
the  mountains.  Swarms  of  gnats  filled  the  air;  the  snowy 


120 


THE  COSSACKS. 


mountain-tops  were  hidden  from  sight  by  a thick  haze;  the 
air  was  heavy  and  oppressive.  There  were  rumors,  too, 
that  some  Abreks,  taking  advantage  of  the  low  water,  had 
crossed  the  river,  and  were  now  lurking  about  the  neigh- 
borhood. Every  evening  the  setting  sun  looked  like  an 
immense  ball  of  fire. 

It  was  the  busiest  season  of  the  year,  the  entire  popula- 
tion being  engaged  with  the  vintage,  and  in  gathering  the 
melon  crop.  The  gardens,  filled  with  luxuriant  vines,  were 
the  only  places  that  afforded  any  shade.  Great  bunches  of 
luscious  grapes  hung  thick  on  every  side,  and  ox-carts, 
heaped  to  the  very  top  with  purple  fruit,  creaked  slowly 
along  the  roads  leading  from  the  vineyards.  Little  boys 
and  girls,  with  their  hands  filled  with  the  fruit,  and  gar- 
ments stained  with  grape- juice,  ran  along  the  roads  behind 
their  mothers.  At  every  step  one  met  ragged  laborers 
bearing  large  baskets  of  grapes  on  their  shoulders. 
Shrouded  to  the  eyes  in  their  white  handkerchiefs,  the  Cos- 
sack girls  guided  the  oxen  attached  to  huge  wagons  laden 
with  fruit.  The  soldiers  who  met  them  usually  asked  for 
some,  and  the  girls,  jumping  on  the  cart,  gathered  up 
great  handfuls  of  grapes  and  threw  them  to  the  soldiers 
without  stopping  the  team. 

In  some  court-yards  the  work  of  tramping  out  the  juice 
had  already  begun,  and  the  air  was  filled  with  its  pungent 
odor.  Huge  piles  of  red  casks  stood  on  the  sidewalks,  and 
bare-legged  Tartar  workmen  were  hard  at  work  in  the 
court-yards.  The  swine  eagerly  devoured  and  wallowed  in 
the  refuse,  and  the  flat  roofs  of  the  outer  kitchens  were 
covered  with  rich  red  grapes  that  were  drying  in  the  sun. 

Thii  fruit  of  the  yearns  labor  was  gathered  with  gay 
hearts,  for  it  was  unusually  abundant.  Merry  laughter  and 
gay  jests  resounded  on  every  side. 

Marianna  was  s tanding  in  their  vineyard  one  noon,  tak- 
ing the  family  dinner  from  a cart  that  stood  in  the  shade 
of  a large  peach-tree.  Her  father  was  sitting  on  the  ground 


THE  COSSACKS. 


121 


opposite  her.  He  had  just  returned  from  school,  and  was 
washing  his  hands  in  some  water  his  httle  son  had  brought 
from  the  pond.  Old  Oulita,  with  her  sleeves  rolled  high 
up  on  her  strong,  sunburned  arms,  was  placing  the  dried 
fish,  bread,  grapes  and  curds  on  a low  table. 

The  cornet  wiped  his  hands,  removed  his  cap,  made  the 
sign  of  the  cross,  and  approached  the  table.  The  little  boy 
seized  the  water- jug  and  drank  greedily.  The  mother  and 
daughter  seated  themselves  with  their  legs  crossed  under 
them.  Even  in  the  shade  the  heat  was  suffocating,  and 
the  air  seemed  to  scorch  one.  The  cornet  muttered  an- 
other prayer,  took  a pitcher  of  wine,  drank,  and  then 
passed  it  to  his  wife.  His  shirt  was  open  at  the  throat,  dis- 
closing his  hairy  chest.  His  shrewd  face  wore  a good-hu- 
mored expression.  There  was  no  sign  of  affectation  either 
in  his  manner  or  conversation  to-day.  He  was  merry  and 
natural. 

All  the  members  of  the  family  were  in  excellent  spirits. 
Their  work  was  progressing  satisfactorily,  and  the  yield 
had  proved  greater  and  of  a better  quality  than  they  had 
anticipated. 

After  she  had  finished  her  own  dinner  Marianna  fed  the 
oxen,  then,  rolling  up  her  mantle  and  placing  it  under  her 
head  for  a pillow,  she  stretched  herself  out  on  the  ground 
under  the  cart.  Her  face  was  flushed,  her  eyes  heavy  with 
sleep  and  fatigue,  her  breath  labored.  Since  the  begin- 
ning of  the  vintage  season,  a fortnight  before,  the  girFs 
life  had  been  one  of  incessant  toil.  She  rose  with  the  sun, 
and,  after  a hurried  bath  in  cold  water,  ran  barefooted  to 
the  stable;  then,  after  hastily  putting  on  her  shoes,  she 
harnessed  the  oxen,  packed  up  the  necessary  food,  and 
started  for  the  vineyard,  where  the  rest  of  the  day  was  to 
be  spent. 

After  a few  minutes^  rest  at  noon,  the  work  of  gathering 
the  grapes  began  again,  and  when  evening  came  she  drove 
the  cart  home,  tired  but  happy.  After  attending  to  the 


122 


THE  COSSACKS. 


cattle  in  the  dim  twilight,  she  filled  her  broad  sleeves  with 
sunflower  seeds,  and  went  out  on  the  street  corner  to  enjoy 
herself  with  the  other  girls;  but  as  soon  as  it  became  really 
dark,  she  re-entered  the  house,  and  eat  her  supper,  in  com- 
pany with,  her  parents  and  younger  brother.  Afterward 
she  generally  perched  herself  on  the  stove  and  listened  to 
their  lodger^s  talk.  When  he  left  she  threw  herself  on  the 
bed  and  slept  quietly  and  soundly  until  morning,  when  she 
began  the  same  life  over  again.  She  had  not  seen  Lukash- 
ka  since  their  betrothal,  and  though  she  was  looking  for- 
ward to  her  marriage-day  with  quiet  satisfaction,  she  had 
become  accustomed  to  Olenine^s  presence,  and  felt  con- 
siderably flattered  by  the  close  attention  with  which  he 
watched  her  every  movement. 


OHAPTEE  XXXI. 

In  spite  of  the  oppressive  heat  and  the  persecution  of 
the  gnats,  Marianka  had  fallen  into  a doze,  when  her  friend 
Oustinka  came  running  up,  and  crawling  under  the  cart, 
laid  down  beside  her. 

Now  let^s  go  to  sleep,^^  she  exclaimed.  Wait  a 
minute,  though,^^  she  added,  springing  up;  I don^t  call 
this  very  comfortable,^^  and  breaking  off  some  branches, 
she  covered  the  wheels,  and  then  threw  her  mantle  over 
them. 

Eun  away  now/^  she  said,  authoritatively,  to  the  little 
boy.  Is  this  any  place  for  a Cossack?  Clear  out,  I say.^^ 

Left  alone  with  her  friend,  Oustinka  threw  one  arm 
around  her  and  kissed  her  affectionately. 

‘‘You  dear  little  pet,^^  she  exclaimed,  with  a clear  ring- 
ing laugh. 

“Grandfather  taught  you  that,  I suppose, laughed 
Marianna.  “ Stop,  I say.^^ 

And  they  botli  laughed  so  noisily  that  Marianna^s  mother 
began  to  scold  them. 


THE  COSSACKS.  123 

got  something  to  tell  you/^  said  Oustinka,  more 
cautiously. 

What  is  it  about asked  Marianna^  raising  herself  on 
her  elbow,  and  tightening  the  handkerchief  on  her  head. 

Something  I\e  found  out  about  you  and  your  lodger.-’^ 

There ^s  nothing  to  find  out."^^ 

^^What  a little  hypocrite  you  are!  He  comes  to  your 
house  very  often,  doesn^t  he?^^ 

Yes,  he  does,  but  what  of  that?^^  asked  Marianna, 
with  a faint  blush. 

I am  a simple-minded  girl;  I tell  you  all  my  secrets. 
Why  should  I conceal  them?^^  said  Oustinka,  her  rosy  face 
becoming  thoughtful.  Do  I harm  any  one  by  doing  so? 
I love  him;  that  is  the  long  and  short  of  it. 

‘^Who?  Beletsky?^^ 

^^Yes.^^ 

It  is  a sin,^^  said  Marianna. 

But,  Machinka,  when  is  one  to  enjoy  life  if  not  when 
one  is  young?  By  and  by,  when  I marry  a Cossack,  I shall 
have  nothing  but  care  and  hard  work.  When  you  are 
married  to  Lukashka  youTl  have  neither  the  time  nor  the 
opportunity  to  enjoy  yourself;  you  will  have  nothing  to 
look  forward  to  but  children  and  hard  work. 

Some  people  are  happy  even  when  they  are  married. 
It  makes  very  little  difference,  though,  either  way,^’  said 
Mai^ianna,  calmly. 

But  tell  me,  just  this  once,  what  has  passed  between 
you  and  Lukashka  ?^^ 

Nothing.  He  asked  my  hand  in  marriage,  and  my 
father  insisted  that  we  should  wait  a year.  He  has  asked 
for  me  again  since.  We  are  now  betrothed,  and  we  shall 
be  married  in  the  fall.^^ 

What  has  he  said  to  you?^^ 

What  men  usually  say,  I suppose.  He  says  he  loves 
me,  and  he  is  always  asking  me  to  walk  with  him  in  the 
garden. 


124 


THE  COSSACKS. 


An  invitation  you  do  not  accept,  I suppose.  Wliat  a 
handsome  fellow  he  is  getting  to  be!  Kirka  tells  me  tliat 
he  has  just  got  a splendid  new  horse.  He  is  very  lonely 
away  from  you,  I suppose.  Has  he  ever  told  you  so?^^ 

^^You  seem  determined  to  know  all,  said  Marianna, 
laughing.  Well,  he  came  to  the  window  one  night.  He 
was  drunk,  and  wanted  me  to  let  him  in.^^ 

Did  you  do  it?^^ 

Certainly  not.  I had  told  him  before  that  I wouldn^t, 
and  I shall  keep  my  word,  you  may  be  sure.^^ 

He^s  awfully  handsome.  There  are  not  many  girls 
who  could  resist  him.  DonT  you  love  him?^^ 

Yes,  I love  him,  but  I^m  not  going  to  be  guilty  of  any 
folly.  It  would  be  wrong. 

Oustinka  let  her  head  fall  on  her  companion's  breast, 
and  clasping  her  in  her  arms,  laughed  until  she  shook  all 
over. 

Simpleton!  it  is  happiness  you  are  rejecting!^^  she  ex- 
claimed, attempting  to  tickle  her  companion's  neck. 

Stop,  let  me  alone,  cried  Marianna,  laughing. 

CaiiT  you  young  devils  be  quiet?^^  growled  the  sleepy 
voice  of  the  old  woman. 

You  are  refusing  a wonderful  piece  of  good  fortune, 
continued  Oustinka.  If  I were  in  your  place  what  hand- 
some presents  I would  get  out  of  your  lodger.  I watched 
him  the  night  he  was  at  our  house,  and  he  seemed  to  be 
positively  devouring  you  with  his  eyes.  He  is  one  of  the 
richest  Eussians  here,  and  has  hundreds  of  serfs,  liis  serv- 
ant says. 

Marianna  smiled  thoughtfully. 

Would  you  like  to  know  what  he  said  to  me  once?^^ 
she  asked,  nibbling  a blade  of  grass.  He  said  he  wished 
lie  was  the  Cossack  Lukashka,  or  my  little  brother  Lazout- 
ka.  Wliat  did  he  mean,  do  you  suppose?’^ 

^Jotliing,  i guess.  He  only  said  the  first  thing  that 


THE  COSSACKS. 


125 


came  into  his  head^  probably/''  replied  Oustinka.  You 
would  think  my  sweetheart  was  crazy  the  way  he  runs  on. 

Marianna  laid  her  head  back  on  her  pillow  again^  and 
placed  one  hand  on  Oustinka^s  shoulder. 

He  wanted  to  come  and  work  in  the  vineyard  with  us 
to-day;  my  father  invited  him  to/’  she  remarked,  after  a 
short  silence.  In  another  moment  she  was  sound  asleep. 


OHAPTEE  XXXII. 

The  peach-tree  had  ceased  to  cast  a shadow  on  the  ox- 
cart, and  the  slanting  rays  of  the  hot  sun  now  forced  their 
way  through  the  branches  and  burned  the  faces  of  the 
sleeping  girls.  Marianna  woke  and  began  to  arrange  the 
kerchief  on  her  head.  As  she  glanced  around  she  saw 
Olenine,  with  his  gun  upon  his  shoulder,  talking  with  her 
father,  so  she  nudged  her  companion  and  silently  pointed 
to  the  young  man. 

^‘1  didn'^t  find  a single  one  yesterday, remarked 
Olenine,  looking  anxiously  about  for  Marianna,  who  was 
concealed  from  his  sight  by  the  branches. 

Go  to  the  other  side  of  the  vineyard,  describe  a semi- 
circle, and  you  will  find  yourself  in  an  orchard  where  hares 
are  as  plentiful  as  the  most  enthusiastic  sportsman  could 
desire,  replied  the  cornet,  in  his  usual  florid  style. 

“ It  is  no  easy  matter  to  find  hares  this  time  of  the  year. 
You  had  better  stay  and  help  us,^^  said  the  old  woman, 
gayly.  Come,  children,  it’s  time  to  go  to  work  again 
now. 

Since  Olenine  had  given  Lukashka  a horse  worth  fifty 
rubles  his  host  and  hostess  had  become  much  more  civil; 
indeed,  the  cornet  seemed  well  pleased  to  see  the  Eussian 
in  Marianna^s  company. 

But  I don^t  know  how  to  work,^^  said  Olenine,  keep- 
ing his  eyes  studiously  averted  from  the  cart  under  which 


126 


THE  COSSACKS. 


he  liad  caught  a glimpse  of  Marianna^s  red  handkerchief 
and  blue  skirt. 

Then  ITl  give  you  some  apricots/^  replied  the  old 
woman. 

That  is  an  antiquated  custom  to  which  my  wife  still 
adheres/^  remarked  the  cornet,  as  if  he  felt  it  necessary  to 
make  excuses  for  his  wife.  In  Eussia  you  would  not 
only  have  plenty  of  apricots,  but  pine-apples  as  well. 

So  there  are  hares  in  that  old  orchard?’^  inquired 
Olenine.  Well,  ITl  go  and  take  a look  at  them,^^  and 
casting  a hasty  glance  through  the  branches,  he  lifted  his 
cap  and  disappeared  behind  the  long  straight  vine  rows. 

The  sun  was  low  in  the  horizon  when  Olenine  returned  to 
the  garden.  The  breeze  had  died  away,  but  the  air  was 
growing  cooler.  Seeing  Marianna^s  blue  gown  in  the  dis- 
tance, Olenine  walked  toward  her,  plucking  a grape  now 
and  then  as  he  passed.  Marianna  was  deftly  severing  the 
heavy  clusters  from  the  vines  and  placing  them  in  a basket. 
She  paused  without  letting  go  her  hold  on  the  branch  and 
smiled  sweetly.  Olenine  stepped  up  to  her,  flinging  his 
rifle  across  his  shoulder,  so  his  hands  would  be  at  liberty. 
He  intended  to  ask  her  if  she  were  alone,  but  he  could  only 
lift  his  cap.  Not  a single  word  could  he  utter.  He  felt 
terribly  ill  at  ease  when  alone  with  Marianna,  yet,  volun- 
tary martyr  that  he  was,  he  stepped  still  closer  to  her. 

You  run  a great,  risk  of  shooting  some  one  with  your 
rifle, remarked  Marianna. 

Ifll  take  good  care  not  to  do  that.'^^ 

There  was  a short  silence,  then: 

Why  donT  you  help  me?^^  she  asked. 

He  took  a small  knife  from  his  pocket,  and  began  work. 
Soon,  drawing  out  from  behind  the  leaves  a large  bunch 
which  weighed  at  least  three  pounds  and  on  which  the 
grapes  were  crowded  close  together,  he  showed  it  to  Mari- 
anna. 

Shall  I cut  this?  Is  it  ripe?^^  he  asked. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


127 


Give  it  to  me. 

Their  hands  touched.  Olenine  seized  that  of  the  young 
girl.  She  made  no  attempt  to  withdraw  it,  only  gazed  at 
him  smilingly. 

Do  you  expect  to  be  married  soon?^^  he  asked. 

She  gave  him  a stern,  forbidding  look,  and  averted  her 
head. 

Do  you  love  Lukashka?^^ 

Is  that  any  business  of  yours  she  answered,  curtly. 

I envy  him. 

Nonsense 

I do.  I swear  I do!  You  are  so  beautiful. 

Suddenly  realizing  how  trite  and  commonplace  were  his 
words,  he  blushed  scarlet,  and  seized  both  the  girTs  hands. 

Pretty  or  ugly,  I am  not  for  you.  Why  do  you  try  to 
amuse  yourself  at  my  expense 

But  Marianna^s  eyes  contradicted  her  words;  she  knew 
only  too  well  that  he  was  in  earnest,  terribly  in  earnest. 

Though  his  words  sounded  even  more  commoplace  and 
out  of  harmony  with  his  feelings  than  before,  he  continued, 
eagerly: 

I don^t  know  what  I wouldn^t  do  for  you  if  you  would 
let  me.^^ 

Don^t  come  here  bothering  me,  you  rascal!^ ^ 

But  the  girPs  sparkling  eyes  and  heaving  bosom  contra- 
dicted the  words  she  had  just  uttered. 

Olenine  said  to  himself  that  she  must  realize  his  sincerity 
in  spite  of  the  tameness  and  constraint  of  his  words,  and 
that  she  must  have  long  been  aware  of  the  sentiments  he 
was  unable  to  express.  She  only  pretended  not  to  under- 
stand because  she  was  unwilling  to  give  him  an  answer. 

Oh,  dear!^^  exclaimed  the  voice  of  Oustinka,  apparent- 
ly only  a few  steps  from  them. 

Come  and  help  me,  Mitri  Andreitch,'''’  she  called  out 
to  Olenine,  as  her  plump,  naive  face  suddenly  peered  out 
of  a mass  of  vines  close  by. 


128 


TttK  COSRArKft. 


Olenine  stood  silent  and  motionless.  Marianna  con- 
tinued her  work^  though  without  taking  her  eyes  from  the 
young  man’s  face.  He  attempted  to  speak,  but  suddenly 
checking  himself,  shrugged  his  shoulders,  picked  up  his 
rifle,  and  strode  hastily  away. 


CHAPTEE  XXXIII. 

That  night  the  sergeant  came  and  woke  Olenine.  The 
company  was  about  starting  on  an  expedition.  Olenine 
was  delighted  to  have  an  excuse  for  leaving,  and  resolved 
never  to  return.  The  campaign  lasted  four  days.  At  its 
close  the  commander,  who  was  related  to  Olenine,  offered 
him  a position  on  his  staff;  but  Olenine  refused  it.  He 
could  not  live  away  from  the  station,  and  asked  permission 
to  return  to  it.  He  received  the  cross  for  which  he  had 
once  longed  so  ardently,  but  for  which  he  now  cared  not  a 
straw,  and  started  in  company  with  Vania  for  the  station 
several  hours  in  advance  of  the  others. 

He  spent  the  evening  on  the  porch  gazing  at  Marianna 
and  the  night  in  pacing  the  court-yard,  without  any  deflnite 
plan  or  aim. 

It  was  late  when  he  woke  the  next  morning,  and.  the 
cornet’s  family  had  gone  to  the  vineyard.  Feeling  no  de- 
sire to  hunt,  he  took  a book  and  went  out  on  the  porch, 
but  soon  re-entered  the  house  and  threw  himself  on  the 
bed.  Vania  felt  sure  that  his  master  must  be  sick.  To- 
ward evening  he  got  up  and  began  to  write  in  his  journal., 
He  also  wrote  a letter,  but  he  did  not  post  it.  He  felt  sure 
that  no  one  would  understand  what  he  had  written,  and  he 
told  himself  that  it  was  not  of  the  slightest  consequence 
wliether  any  one  else  understood  it  or  not.  The  contents 
of  tliis  were  as  follows: 

‘‘  My  frieiids  in  Eussia  express  great  anxiety  about  me. 
fl'hcjy  fear  that  I am  becoming  utterly  ruined  in  this  savage 
wilderness,  that  I am  becoming  dissipated  in  my  habits. 


THE  COSSACKS, 


129 


and  that  I am  degenerating  in  every  respect.  Above  alb 
they  fear  that  I will  marry  a Cossack  girl.  General  Yer- 
molou  even  went  so  far  as  to  say  that  a man  who  spends 
ten  years  in  the  Caucasus  is  sure  either  to  become  a drunk- 
ard or  to  marry  a worthless  woman.  This  is  appalling,  in- 
deed. It  does  seem  true  that  I am  throwing  away  my 
chances  in  life  when  I might  have  the  rar^e  good  fortune  to 

marry  the  Countess  B , and  to  become  a chamberlain 

or  marshal. 

Ah!  how  sordid  and  despicable  you  all  are!  There  is 
not  one  among  you  who  has  any  idea  of  true  happiness, 
who  has  once  felt  its  pure  charm.  One  must  have  seen 
and  appreciated  what  I see  before  me  every  day,  have  seen 
the  majestic  mountains  crowned  with  eternal  snow  and  a 
superb  woman  of  primitive  beauty,  such  a woman  as  first 
came  from  the  hands  of  the  Creator,  then  those  who  pity 
me  would  know  which  of  us  is  in  the  right. 

Ah!  if  you  but  knew  the  supreme  contempt  I feel  for 
your  delusions!  When  I look  around  my  humble  cottage, 
and  when  I gaze  at  the  woman  I love,  and  my  thoughts 
revert  to  the  fashionable  drawing-rooms  I once  frequented, 
to  the  absurdly  attired  women  with  elaborately  dressed  false 
hair  and  painted  cheeks,  and  misshapen  forms  so  artfully 
disguised,  and  to  the  meaningless  chatter  which  pretends 
to  be  an  interchange  of  thought,  but  which  is  anything 
else,  my  heart  is  filled  with  loathing.  I see  again  those 
rich  heiresses  whose  stolid  faces  wear  an  expression  that 
says  more  plainly  than  any  words:  You  are  at  liberty  to  woo 
me,  though  I am  rich;  I think  of  the  absurd  rules  of  eti- 
quette that  teach  you  to  whom  you  must  offer  your  hand, 
and  to  whom  you  must  bow,  and  to  whom  you  must  speak; 
I remember,  too,  the  constant  ennui  that  becomes  a part 
of  one^s  very  blood  and  descends  from  generation  to  gen- 
eration with  the  belief  that  all  this  is  unavoidable  and  in- 
dispensable. 

Once  fully  comprehend  the  true  and  the  beautiful,  and 


130 


THE  COSSACKS. 


all  your  long-cherished  idols  will  crumble  into  dust.  True 
happiness  consists  in  living  in  close  communion  with  Nat- 
ure; in  seeing  her^  listening  to  her,  talking  to  her. 

With  what  intense  horror  these  friends  of  mine  speak 
of  their  fear  of  seeing  me  marry  a Cossack,  while  my  only 
desire  in  life  is  to  ruin  myself  in  the  sense  they  mean.  I 
long  to  marry  a poor  Cossack  girl,  but  dare  not  because  it 
would  be  the  height  of  happiness,  and  I am  not  worthy 
of  it. 

Three  months  have  passed  since  I saw  Marianna  for 
the  first  time.  The  prejudices  of  the  world  I had  so  re- 
cently left  were  still  alive  within  me.  I did  not  then  be- 
lieve that  I could  ever  really  love  this  girl.  I admired  her 
as  I admired  the  beauty  of  the  mountains  and  the  radiance 
of  the  sky.  I could  not  do  otherwise,  for  she  is  as  beauti- 
ful as  nature  itself.  Afterward  I felt  that  the  contempla- 
tion of  her  beauty  was  becoming  necessary,  even  indis- 
pensable to  me;  and  I began  to  ask  myself  if  I did  really 
love  her.  Still  the  feeling  I experienced  was  utterly  unlike 
love — as  I then  understood  it.  It  was  not  due  to  a feeling 
of  loneliness  or  to  a desire  to  marry;  it  was  not  platonic 
love;  still  less  was  it  a carnal  passion.  I longed  to  see  her, 
to  hear  her  voice,  to  feel  her  presence;  then,  and  then  only 
was  I not  only  happy,  but  calm. 

After  the  evening  when  I spoke  to  her  for  the  first 
time,  I felt  that  there  was  an  indissoluble  bond  between  us. 
Still  I struggled  against  this  feeling.  I asked  myself  if  I 
could  possibly  love  a woman — a statue — merely  for  her 
beauty.  And  I loved  her  already,  without  even  suspect- 
ing it. 

After  we  talked  together  for  the  first  time  our  rela- 
tions clianged.  Up  to  that  time  she  had  been  to  me  the 
personification  of  aJl  that  is  majestic  and  beautiful  in  nat- 
ure; now  she  is  a woman;  I meet  her  often;  I go  to  her 
father's  vineyard;  I spend  long  evenings  at  her  home;  but 
in  s])ite  of  this  familiar  intercourse,  she  seems  to  me  as 


THE  COSSACKS 


131 


pure^  majestic^  and  unapproachable  as  in  the  past.  She  is 
always  calxn^  proud,  and  indifferent.  Her  manner  is  some- 
times almost  caressing;  nevertheless,  every  glance,  move- 
ment and  word  shows  a coldness  in  which  there  is  no  tinge 
of  scorn,  and  which  is  full  of  charm. 

Every  day,  with  a feigned  smile  on  my  lips  and  a heart 
torn  with  passion,  I try  to  please  her,  and  even  attempt  to 
laugh  and  jest  with  her.  She  does  not  ignore  my  feeble 
attempts,  but  responds  to  them  simply  and  candidly.  The 
present  state  of  affairs  has  become  intolerable. 

A few  days  ago  I resolved  to  continue  the  deception  no 
longer,  but  to  frankly  avow  my  love  for  her.  It  was  in  her 
father^  s vineyard,  and  I told  her  of  my  love  in  words  of 
which  I am  deeply  ashamed.  I ought  not  to  have  spoken 
as  I did;  she  is  as  immeasurably  superior  to  me  as  the  pas- 
sion I tried  to  express  is  superior  to  the  poor,  stammer- 
ing words  in  which  I gave  vent  to  my  feelings.  She  bade 
me  be  silent;  and  I have  known  no  peace  since.  I am  not 
worthy  to  touch  The  hem  of  her  garment;  and  I ask  myself 
in  despair  what  I am  to  do.  In  my  senseless  dream  she  is 
sometimes  my  mistress,  sometimes  my  wife;  but  both  these 
ideas  are  equally  distasteful  to  me.  To  make  her  my  mis- 
tress would  be  horrible — it  would  be  murder.  To  marry 
her,  to  attempt  to  transform  her  into  a lady,  would  be  even 
worse.  Ah!  if  I could  only  transform  myself  into  a Cos- 
sack like  Lukashka;  if  I could  steal  horses,  murder  people, 
get  drunk,  and  creep  to  her  window  at  night  without  a 
thought  of  remorse;  in  short,  if  I could  transform  myself 
into  a magnificent  animal,  we  might  understand  each  other 
and  be  happy.  I have  tried,  and  I have  seen  my  weak- 
ness. I can  not  forget  my  complicated  and  unnatural  past, 
and  the  future  seems  hopeless.  I gaze  at  the  snowy  mount- 
ains and  at  this  superb  woman,  and  sorrowfully  say  to  my- 
self that  the  only  real  happiness  in  this  world  is  not  for  me, 
and  that  this  woman  can  never  be  mine.  And  the  most 
cruel  and  yet  the  most  blissful  thing  about  it  all  is  that  I 


132 


THE  COSSACKS. 


understand  this  woman^  and  that  she  will  never  understand 
me^  for  she  is  a true  child  of  nature — beautiful  and  impass- 
able. And  poor,  weak  creature,  dare  to  wish  that  she 
could  understand  my  mental  and  moral  deformity  and  my 
torture  of  mind!  I spend  my  sleepless  night  in  walking 
to  and  fro  under  her  windows,  unable  to  comprehend  what 
is  going  on  in  my  own  soul. 

On  the  15th  of  August  our  company  went  on  an  ex- 
pedition. I was  absent  four  days.  I took  no  interest  what- 
ever in  all  that  went  on  around  me.  The  campaign,  the 
card-playing,  and  the  endless  discussions  regarding  proba- 
ble promotions  and  decorations  seemed  even  more  tiresome 
than  usual.  I returned  last  evening,  and  the  joy  I experi- 
enced on  again  beholding  her  and  my  humble  home  was  so 
intense  that  I understand  my  feelings  at  last.  I love  this 
woman  with  a deep,  intense,  all-absorbing  passion.  I feel 
no  fear  of  degrading  myself  by  this  love;  I glory  in  it. 
The  sentiment  is  not  the  creation  of  my  own  will;  it  has 
taken  possession  of  me  against  my  will.  I tried  to  drive  it 
from  my  heart,  but  in  vain.  I even  attempted  to  immo- 
late myself  on  the  sacrificial  altar  and  rejoice  in  my  rivaTs 
happiness  and  good  fortune;  but  this  only  increased  my 
love  and  my  jealousy.  It  is  no  ideal  sentiment,  nor  an  in- 
fatuation created  by  the  imagination;  still  less  is  it  a 
sensual  passion.  Perhaps  it  is  nature  itself,  or  rather  the 
incarnation  of  all  that  is  beautiful  which  I so  intensely  love 
in  her.  My  will  has  had  no  voice  in  the  matter.  My  love 
seems  to  have  been  brought  about  by  the  very  power  of  the 
elements,  the  power  of  God  himself.  All  nature  seems  to 
force  this  love  upon  me  and  to  cry  out  to  me  imperiously: 
‘ Ijovc.  ^ I love  her  with  my  whole  soul,  and  in  loving  her 
I feel  myself  an  inseparable  part  of  God’s  glorious  universe. 

1 have  alluded  before  to  the  new  theories  and  convic- 
tions, which  were  perhaps  only  the  natural  result  of  my  life 
of  seclusion.  No  one  can  form  any  conception  of  the  men- 
tal conflicts  they  have  cost  me,  of  my  happiness  on  behold- 


THE  COSSACKS. 


133 


ing  the  new  path  they  opened  before  me^  or  of  how  dear 
they  were  to  me.  But  love  came;  all  my  fine  theories  van- 
ished in  smoke — and  I do  not  regret  them.  I do  not  even 
understand  how  I could  have  accepted  such  a dreary  belief. 
Beauty  revealed  itself  to  me  in  all  its  splendor,  and  the 
stately  structure  upon  which  I had  expended  all  the  powers 
of  my  intellect  crumbled  into  dust.  I do  not  mourn  its 
downfall.  Self-sacrifice — what  nonsense!  It  is  nothing  but 
pride,  the  desire  to  escape  suffering,  the  jealousy  excited 
by  the  sight  of  another's  happiness.  Live  for  my  neigh- 
bor? Do  good?  Why  should  I,  when  I really  love  only 
myself,  and  have  but  one  desire — to  win  her  and  live  her 
life?  I am  no  longer  troubled  by  a solicitude  for  the  hap- 
piness of  others.  It  is  not  for  Lukashka  I now  crave  hap- 
piness, it  is  for  myself.  Only  a few  weeks  ago  I should 
have  reproached  myself  bitterly  for  thoughts  like  these;  I 
should  have  tormented  myself  with  thoughts  of  the  possible 
consequences  to  Lukashka.  Now  I am  indifferent;  I seem  to 
have  lost  all  volition  of  my  own,  and  to  be  driven  onward 
by  some  irresistible  force.  I suffer,  but  I live — my  former 
, existence  was  only  death  in  life. 

This  very  day  I will  see  her  and  tell  her  all.^^ 


CHAPTER  XXXIV. 

It  was  late  that  evening  when  Olenine,  after  finishing 
his  letter,  went  to  the  cornet^s  cottage.  The  old  woman 
was  sitting  on  a bench  reeling  cocoons;  Marianna,  with  her 
hair  uncovered,  was  sewing  by  the  light  of  a candle.  She 
sprung  up  on  Olenine^  s entrance,  and  seizing  her  handker- 
chief hurried  toward  the  stove. 

Stay  here  with  ns,  Marianna,  said  her  mother. 

No,  I^m  bareheaded, she  replied,  climbing  upon  the 
stove. 

Olenine  had  brought  his  landlady  some  tea,  and  she  in 
return  treated  him  to  some  curds,  and  urged  him  tp  help 


134 


THE  COSSACKS. 


himself  to  her  wine,  with  the  rough  but  hearty  hospitality 
almost  invariably  displayed  by  those  who  earn  their  living 
by  the  sweat  of  the  brow.  The  old  woman,  whose  rude- 
ness had  so  offended  Olenine  at  first,  often  touched  him 
now  by  the  tenderness  with  which  she  spoke  of  her  daugh- 
ter. 

God  be  praised!  we  have  enough  and  to  spare she 
exclaimed.  We  have  plenty  of  salt  fish  put  away,  and 
three  hogsheads  of  wine  to  sell,  besides  what  we  shall  want 
for  our  own  use.  You  mustnT  think  of  going  away,  but 
stay  here  and  have  a good  time  at  the  wedding.'’^ 

And  when  is  the  wedding  to  be?^^  asked  Olenine.  All 
the  blood  in  his  body  seemed  to  rush  to  his  face,  and  his 
heart  beat  fast  and  painfully. 

He  heard  a slight  movement  behind  the  stove,  followed 
by  the  crunching  of  sunflower  seeds. 

It  might  be  next  week;  so  far  as  we  are  concerned,  we 
are  ready.  We  have  everything  prepared,  and  we  shall 
give  our  daughter  a snug  little  dowry;  but  I am  sorry  to 
say  that  Lukashka  is  causing  us  some  anxiety  just  now. 
He  has  been  drinking  hard  and  doing  all  sorts  of  foolish 
things.  We  heard  the  other  day  that  he  had  gone  up  in 
the  Tartar  country. 

He  runs  a great  risk.^^ 

‘SSo  I think.  I told  him,  too,  that  he  had  better  take 
care.  But  he  is  young  and  reckless.  Of  course  all  young 
men  are  imprudent,  but  there  is  reason  in  all  things.  He 
has  run  off  horses  and  killed  an  Abrek,  and  that  ought  to 
satisfy  him  for  awhile;  but  instead  of  that,  he  seems  in- 
clined to  go  too  far  entirely. 

‘‘  1 saw  him  a couple  of  times  when  I was  out  on  the  ex- 
pedition; he  had  just  bought  another  horse, said  Olen- 
inc,  glancing  toward  the  stove. 

The  stern,  even  hostile  light  that  shone  in  Marianna^s 
large  blac^k  eyes  alarmed  him. 

Well,  it  is  his  own  money  he  is  spending,  I suppose, 


THE  COSSACKS.  135 

said  Marianna^  curtly.  I don^t  see  that  any  one  else  need 
trouble  himself  about  it. 

As  she  spoke  she  jumped  down  from  the  stove  and 
flounced  out  of  the  room^  slamming  the  door  behind  her. 

After  that  Olenine  sat  with  his  eyes  fixed  on  the  door, 
anxiously  awaiting  the  girks  return. 

Some  time  afterward  visitors  entered — a brother  of  old 
Oulita  and  Uncle  Jerochka.  Following  them  came  Mari- 
anna and  Oustinka.  Olenine  felt  embarrassed  and  uncom- 
fortable. He  longed  to  go  away,  but  had  not  the  courage. 
The  old  Cossack  came  to  his  relief  by  asking  him  for  some 
wine,  and  they  all  took  a glass  together;  but  the  more 
Olenine  drank  the  heavier  his  heart  seemed  to  grow.  The 
two  old  men  soon  became  boisterous;  the  girls  sat  behind 
the  stove,  and  laughed  and  whispered  while  they  watched  the 
men  drink.  Olenine  drank  even  more  than  the  others. 
At  last  the  Cossacks  became  very  noisy,  and  Mother  Oulita 
threatened  to  turn  them  out  of  the  house,  and  absolutely 
refused  to  give  them  any  more  wine.  It  was  ten  o^  clock 
when  they  left,  after  requesting  Olenine^s  permission  to  fin- 
ish their  lark  at  his  house.  Oustinka  ran  home,  and 
the  old  woman  went  into  the  outer  kitchen  to  put  things  in 
order  for  the  night.  Marianna  was  left  alone.  Olenine  felt 
as  fresh  and  well  as  if  he  had  just  woke  from  a long  night^s 
sleep;  and  letting  the  two  old  Cossacks  pass  him,  he  turned 
and  stepped  back  into  the  cottage. 

Marianna  had  thrown  herself  down  on  the  bed.  Olenine 
went  up  to  her  and  tried  to  speak,  but  his  voice  failed  him. 
Hastily  raising  herself  upon  her  elbow,  Marianna  gazed  at 
him  with  a wild,  almost  terrified  expression  in  her  beautiful 
eyes.  She  was  evidently  afraid  of  him,  and  Olenine  felt 
sorry  and  ashamed. 

Are  you  never  going  to  take  pity  on  me,  Marianna?^ ^ 
he  asked.  You  have  no  idea  how  much  I love  you. 

It^s  the  wine  that  makes  you  talk  this  way. 


136 


THE  COSSACKS. 


No,  I am  not  drunk.  Eefuse  Lukashka.  I will  marry 
you.” 

What  have  I said?^^  he  thought,  as  he  uttered  the 
promise.  Shall  I be  willing  to  repeat  those  words  to- 
morrow? Yes,  unquestionably,  now  and  at  any  time,^^ 
responded  an  inward  voice. 

Will  you  consent  to  marry  me?^^  he  insisted. 

She  looked  at  him  gravely;  her  fears  had  evidently  sub- 
sided. 

‘^Marianna,  I am  going  mad;  speak!  I will  do  what- 
ever you  wish!^^  he  cried,  passionately. 

And  a torrent  of  incoherent,  impassioned  words  burst 
from  his  lips. 

Why  do  you  talk  such  nonsense she  exclaimed,  tak- 
ing the  hand  he  extended,  and  pressing  it  warmly  in  her 
own  firm,  strong  fingers.  Is  it  likely  that  a gentleman 
would  marry  a poor  Cossack  girl?^^ 

Will  you  marry  me?^^  he  repeated.  There  is  noth- 
ing in  the  whole  wide  world — 

But  what  shall  we  do  with  Lukashka?^  ^ she  asked, 
Faughing. 

He  tore  his  hand  from  her  grasp  and  threw  his  arms 
around  the  girl,  but  she  freed  herself  from  his  embrace, 
and  springing  to  the  fioor,  fied  like  a frightened  fawn.  Olen- 
ine,  on  coming  to  himself,  was  amazed  at  his  own  audacity; 
but  he  did  not  feel  the  slightest  remorse.  On  his  return 
home  he  took  no  notice  of  the  old  Cossacks  who  had  so  un- 
ceremoniously quartered  themselves  upon  him,  but  went 
immediately  to  bed,  and  slept  more  soundly  than  he  had 
slept  for  a long,  long  time. 


CTTAPTEE  XXXV. 

^Ftfe  TK^xt  (Lay  was  a f(*;te  day,  and  the  streets  of  the  vil- 
lager werre  iliroiigerd  with  j)(302)le  in  holiday  garb.  The  vint- 
age liad  b(3en  unusually  abundant;  the  labors  of  the  season 


THE  COSSACKS.  137 

were  ended,  and  weddings  were  soon  to  take  place  in  sev- 
eral families. 

In  the  afternoon  a large  crowd  assembled  in  front  of  the 
shops  in  the  public  square,  and  on  the  terrace  in  front  of 
the  government  offices  sat  a number  of  old  gray-headed 
Cossacks  gravely  discussing  the  harvest,  military  affairs 
and  the  good  old  times  of  their  youth,  while  they  gravely 
and  majestically  watched  the  movements  of  the  rising  gen- 
eration. 

The  women  and  young  girls  bowed  low  as  they  passed; 
the  young  men  slackened  their  pace  and  uncovered  their 
heads.  Some  of  the  patriarchs  surveyed  passers-by  in  a 
friendly  fashion;  others  rather  sternly,  returning  the  salute 
but  slowly. 

The  games  and  dance  had  not  begun,  but  the  women 
were  gathering  in  little  groups  on  the  terraces  and  were 
laughing  and  chatting  noisily.  A number  of  children  were 
playing  in  the  square,  throwing  their  balls  up  into  the  air 
and  then  catching  them  again,  with  shrill  cries  of  delight. 
Several  half-grown  girls  were  dancing  and  singing  on  the 
other  side  of  the  street.  An  Armenian  merchant  in  a blue 
broadcloth  coat,  trimmed  with  gold  braid,  was  standing  in 
the  door-way  of  his  shop,  awaiting  customers  with  all  the 
gravity  of  an  Oriental  who  is  fully  conscious  of  his  own 
importance.  Two  barefooted  Circassians,  with  beards  dyed 
red,  were  sitting  cross-legged  at  the  gate  of  a friend^s 
house,  smoking  their  pipes  and  commenting  on  the  crowd. 
They  had  come  from  the  other  side  of  the  Terek  to  attend 
the  festival.  At  rare  intervals  a soldier  might  be  seen 
making  his  way  through  the  crowd.  The  cottages  were  all 
closed,  the  porches  having  been  carefully  washed  the  even- 
ing before.  Even  the  elderly  women  were  in  the  street. 
The  ground  was  thickly  strewed  with  melon,  sunflower  and 
pumpkin  seeds.  The  air  was  mild  and  still;  the  sky  blue 
and  transparent.  The  snow-capped  mountains,  tinged 
with  a roseate  hue  by  the  rays  of  the  declining  sun,  seemed 


138 


THE  COSSACKS. 


only  a short  distance  off.  The  ominous  sound  of  a gun- 
shot was  wafted  now  and  then  from  the  other  side  of  the 
river^  but  in  the  village  mirth  and  revelry  alone  were 
heard. 

Olenine  had  spent  the  morning  in  the  court-yard  waiting 
for  Marianna,  but  when  her  household  duties  were  per- 
formed she  went  to  church,  after  which  she  seated  herself 
on  the  terrace  with  the  other  girls.  She  had  brought 
several  peddlers  to  the  house  during  the  day,  in  order  that 
they  might  show  her  mother  their  merchandise,  and  each 
time  she  passed  she  gave  Olenine  a pleasant  smile.  He 
dared  not  address  a word  to  her  in  the  presence  of  others, 
but  was  determined  to  finish  his  conversation  of  the  pre- 
vious evening  and  obtain  a decisive  answer.  He  waited  for 
a favorable  opportunity,  but  this  did  not  present  itself,  and 
feeling  that  he  could  endure  this  suspense  no  longer,  he 
followed  her,  but  passed  the  street  corner  where  she  was 
sitting  without  approaching  her.  As  he  passed  he  heard  a 
laugh  behind  him,  and  his  heart  sunk  like  lead.  When  he 
reached  Beletsky^s  cottage,  which  fronted  on  the  square, 
Olenine  heard  his  friend  call  him  by  name,  so  he  reluctant- 
ly entered. 

After  chatting  a moment,  the  two  young  men  seated 
themselves  at  the  window.  Jerochka,  arrayed  in  his  new 
coat,  soon  joined  them. 

There^s  a good-looking  crowd  for  you,^^  remarked  Be- 
letsky, laughing  and  pointing  to  the  gay  group  of  girls  on 
the  street  corner.  My  girl  is  among  them.  The  one  in 
a red  dress.  It  is  a new  gown,  by  the  way,  and  she  looks 
as  sweet  as  a peach  in  it.  When  it  gets  dark  weTl  join 
them  and  take  them  over  to  Oustinka^s  house  and  have  a 
dance. 

1^11  come,^^  replied  Olenine,  quickly.  Will  Marian- 
na be  there?^^ 

Certainly,  answered  Beletsky,  not  in  the  least  aston- 


THE  COSSACKS.  139 

ished,  apparently.  Isn^t  it  a picturesque  sight?^^  he  add- 
ed, pointing  to  the  motley  crowd. 

Charming/^  responded  Olenine,  with  pretended  in- 
difference. Though  when  I witness  such  a fete  I always 
wonder  why  people  celebrate  any  particular  day  in  the 
month  when  everything  is  always  so  gay  and  bright  here. 
The  peoples^  faces,  their  movements,  their  costumes,  and 
the  very  air  and  sunlight  all  seem  full  of  joy.  We  have 
nothing  like  it  in  our  country. 

That  is  true,^^  replied  Beletsky,  though  he  really  took 
very  little  interest  in  these  criticisms.  Why  donT  you 
help  yourself  to  wine,  old  fellow  he  asked,  turning  to 
Jerochka. 

Is  your  friend  proud  inquired  Jerochka,  turning  to 
Olenine,  with  a meaning  wink. 

Beletsky  laughed  and  poured  out  a glass  for  himself. 

Allah  Urdez^^ — (God  has  given  it) — he  said,  as  he 
raised  the  glass  to  his  lips. 

' Good  health  to  you!^^  responded  Uncle  Jerochka,  smil- 
ing as  he  emptied  his  own  glass. 

You  say  that  everything  here  wears  a holiday  air,^^  re- 
marked the  old  Cossack,  rising  and  going  to  the  window. 

Do  you  call  this  a holiday?  If  you  could  only  have  seen 
the  festivals  we  had  when  I was  young,  you  wouldn^t  think 
so.  In  those  days  the  women  came  out  in  sarafans^  richly 
embroidered  with  gold  braid,  and  a double  necklace  of  gold 
coins  on  their  bosoms.  They  wore  gold  crowns  on  their 
heads,  and  what  a rustling  their  garments  made  as  they 
passed.  They  looked  like  princesses,  and  such  a hub-bub 
as  they  kept  up  all  night  with  their  singing  and  their 
games.  The  men  used  to  roll  great  hogsheads  of  wine  out 
into  the  court-yards,  and  sit  there  and  drink  until  daylight. 
Sometimes,  linking  arms,  they  used  to  tear  through  the 
village  like  an  avalanche,  seizing  everybody  they  met  and 
dragging  them  along  from  house  to  house.  They  generally 
kept  this  up  for  three  days.  I can  remember  my  father 


140 


THE  COSSACES. 


coming  home  with  a face  as  red  as  fire,  his  cap  gone,  and 
without  a penny  in  his  pocket.  My  mother  knew  what  to 
do;  she  went  and  got  some  brandy  and  caviare  to  sober 
him  down,  and  then  ran  out  in  search  of  his  cap.  Some- 
times he  slept  for  two  whole  days  after  his  spree.  That^s 
the  kind  of  men  we  had  in  those  days.  You  don^’t  see  any 
like  them  now.^^ 

And  did  the  girls  amuse  themselves  alone?^^  inquired 
Beletsky. 

Alone?  No,  a crowd  of  men  would  come  up  on  horse- 
back, sometimes  shouting:  ^ Let^s  break  up  the  gameP  and 
ride  their  horses  right  upon  the  girls.  The  girls  would  arm 
themselves  with  sticks  and  beat  the  men  and  the  horses  like 
fury.  When  they  had  broken  the  ring,  each  Cossack  would 
seize  the  girl  he  liked  best,  and  ride  off  at  a gallop.  One 
could  have  some  fun  in  those  days,  and  how  the  girls  used 
to  love  us!  And  what  beauties  they  were  — regular 
queens 


OHAPTEE  XXXVI. 

Just  then  two  horsemen  emerged  from  a side  street. 
One  was  Lukashka,  the  other  Nazarka.  Lukashka  was 
sitting  a little  sideways  on  his  beautiful  horse,  which 
pranced  lightly  along,  tossing  its  handsome  head  and  glossy 
mane.  His  rider^s  dress  testified  to  the  fact  that  he  was 
just  from  camp;  but  his  nonchalant  manner,  and  the  com- 
placent expression  that  shone  in  his  handsome  black  eyes 
showed  that  he  was  fully  impressed  with  the  superiority  of 
his  strength  and  personal  appearance. 

Have  you  ever  seen  a handsomer  and  more  daring  fel- 
low?^^  his  eyes  seemed  to  say.  His  superb  horse,  with  its 
silver  traj)j)ings,  his  fine  weapons,  and  the  remarkable 
beauty  of  tJie  young  man  himself,  attracted  general  at- 
tontio]],  and  were  all  tlio  more  noticeable  by  reason  of  the 
sliabljy  and  insignilicant  ai)])earance  of  his  companion. 


THE  COSSACKS.  141 

As  he  passed  the  old  man^  Lukashka  paused  and  raised 
his  white  cap  deferentially. 

How  many  horses  did  you  take  from  the  Tartars 
asked  one  little  old  man. 

You  must  have  counted  them  yourself^  grandfather,  so 
why  do  you  ask?^^  retorted  Lukashka,  laughingly,  as  he 
turned  away. 

You  did  very  wrong  to  take  that  fellow  with  you,^^ 
continued  the  old  man,  sullenly. 

The  devil!  he  seems  to  know  all  about  it, thought 
Lukashka,  considerably  annoyed;  buk seeing  the  group  of 
girls  on  the  iitreet  corner,  he  turned  his  steps  in  that  direc- 
tion. How  are  you,  girls?^^  he  shouted,  reining  in  his 
horse.  YouVe  grown  old  in  my  absence.  I^d  no  idea 
you  would  miss  me  so  much. 

“ How  do  you  do,  Lukashka?  how  do  you  do?^^  cried 
several  merry  voices.  Did  you  bring  plenty  of  money 
with  you?  Have  you  come  to  stay  long?  We  havenT 
seen  you  for  an  age. 

Nazarka  and  I have  come  only  for  the  night,  replied 
Lukashka,  starting  his  horse  and  riding  straight  toward 
the  girls. 

Marianka  has  had  plenty  of  time  to  forget  you,^^  said 
Oustiiika,  nudging  her  friend  and  bursting  into  a shrill 
laugh. 

Marianna  retreated  a little  as  the  horse  approached,  and 
throwing  back  her  head,  looked  gravely  at  the  young  Cos- 
sack with  calm,  shining  eyes. 

^^Yes,  it  is  a long  time  since  Fve  seen  you,^^  she  re- 
marked, coolly.  Do  you  want  to  trample  us  under  your 
horse^s  hoofs?^^  she  asked,  dryly,  as  she  turned  away. 

Lukashka  had  been  in  remarkably  good  humor,  but 
Marianna^s  coldness  seemed  to  nettle  him,  and  he  frowned 
darkly. 

Put  your  foot  in  the  stirrup,  my  dear,  and  ni  carry 
you  off  to  the  mountains  he  exclaimed,  suddenly  bend- 


142 


THE  COSSACKB. 


ing  toward  Marianna.  ril  kiss  you,  too!  Yes,  1^11  kiss 
you!^^ 

Marianna  glanced  up  at  him,  and  meeting  his  gaze, 
blushed  deeply. 

Clear  out!  your  horse  will  be  stepping  on  my  feet 
next,^^  she  exclaimed,  looking  down  at  her  blue  em- 
broidered stockings  and  neat  red  shoes. 

1^11  go  and  put  my  horse  away,  and  then  we^ll  make  a 
night  of  it,^'’  replied  Lukashka,  and  striking  his  horse  with 
the  whip,  he  dashed  along  into  another  street,  closely  fol- 
lowed by  Nazarka,  and  finally  drew  rein  in  front  of  two 
houses  that  stood  side  by  side. 

Here  we  are!  Come,  quick !^^  he  shouted,  boisterous- 
ly. Stepka  promptly  obeyed  the  summons,  and  to  her 
Lukashka  intrusted  his  steed,  telling  her  by  signs  to  re- 
move the  saddle  and  give  the  animal  some  hay. 

How  do  you  do,  mother?  Haven ^t  you  gone  out  yet?^^ 
cried  Lukashka,  as  he  mounted  the  steps. 

^^I^’ve  been  waiting  for  you,^^  she  replied;  ‘^though 
Kirka  told  me  that  you  were  not  coming. 

Well,  bring  us  some  wine,  mother.  Nazarka  and  I 
want  to  have  a little  fun  now  we^re  here.""^ 

Very  well,  Lukashka,  very  well,^^  replied  his  mother, 
and  taking  her  keys  she  hurried  off  to  the  wine-cellar. 


CHAPTER  XXXVII. 

Here^s  to  your  health  and  salvation !^^  cried  Lukash- 
ka, cautiously  raising  to  his  lips  the  brimming  bowl  of 
wine  his  mother  had  brought  him. 

That  old  man  seems  to  suspect  something,  remarked 
Nazarka.  ‘‘Lid  you  hear  him  ask  how  many  horses  you 
had  stolon ?^^ 

^Phe  old  scoundrel  !^^  said  Lukashka,  shortly.  Well, 
the  horses  are  safe  on  this  side  of  the  river  now,  so  it  doesn^t 
matter  much. 


THE  COSSACKS. 


143 


It  is  rather  unfortunate  though. 

And  why?  We ^11  make  it  all  right  with  him  by  giving 
him  some  wine  to-morrow.  That  will  be  the  safest  way. 
Now  we^ve  nothing  to  do  but  enjoy  ourselves.  Let^s  go 
and  find  the  girls  and  make  things  lively  till  morning.^-’ 

Just  then  Uncle  Jerochka  and  Yergouchou  entered  the 
cottage. 

Bring  us  another  half  gallon^  mother/^  cried  Lukash- 
ka,  in  answer  to  the  greetings  of  the  new-comers. 

So  you^ve  been  running  ofi  horses,  you  young  rascal 
cried  Uncle  Jerochka.  Tell  me  all  about  it.  You^’re  a 
brave  fellow;  I adore  you.'^'' 

Oh,  yes,  you  adore  me/’  exclaimed  Lukashka,  laugh- 
ing, and  yet  take  my  girl  presents  from  that  rich  Eus- 
sian,  you  old  devil  you!^^ 

‘^It^s  a lie!  it^s  a lie!  The  young 'man  has  begged  me 
to  arrange  matters  for  him  again  .and  again.  Indeed  he 
promised  me  a fine  rifle  if  I would,  but  I wouldnT  consent 
to  do  anything  that  would  injure  you  in  any  way.  Come, 
now,  tell  where  you  got  the  horses. 

The  old  man  began  to  talk  in  the  Tartar  language,  and 
Lukashka  replied  in  the  same  tongue,  and  without  a 
shadow  of  reserve. 

Yergouchou  did  not  understand  Tartar  very  well,  so  his 
curiosity  getting  the  better  of  him,  he  said  in  Eussian : 

I know  for  a certainty  that  you  ran  off  a lot  of  horses. 
How  much  earnest  money  have  you  received  for  them?’’ 

I’ve  got  the  entire  amount  here,^^  replied  Lukashka, 
patting  his  pocket  complacently. 

He  paused  suddenly,  for  his  mother  was  just  entering 
the  room. 

Come,  let^s  drink,  he  shouted,  lustily. 

I remember  starting  out  with  my  friend  Guirtchek  one 
day — began  Jerochka. 

I can^t  stop  to  listen  to  that  yarn, cried  Lukashka. 

Fm  going. 


144 


THE  COSSACKS. 


He  drained  his  bowh  then  tightening  his  belt  around  his 
waist^  he  left  the  cottage. 


OHAPTEE  XXXVIII. 

It  was  dark  when  Lukashka  again  stepped  into  the 
street.  The  autumnal  night  was  cool  and  still.  The  full 
moon  was  visible  above  the  tops  of  the  tall  plane-trees  that 
bordered  one  side  of  the  public  square.  Lights  were  shin- 
ing from  some  of  the  windows,  and  laughter,  singing  and 
crunching  of  seeds  were  even  louder  than  they  had  been  in 
the  daytime. 

Opposite  one  of  the  lighted  shops  was  a crowd  of  men 
and  women,  laughing  and  singing.  The  young  girls  had 
joined  hands  and  formed  a ring,  and  were  whirling  gayly 
around  and  around  to  the  music  of  their  own  voices.  The 
thinnest  and  ugliest  girl  led  the  singing: 

“ Whom  shall  I marry! 

The  fair-haired  youth?  the  fair-haired  youth?” 

The  older  women  were  listening  to  the  songs;  the  chil- 
dren ran  about  in  the  darkness;  the  young  men  were  teas- 
ing the  girls,  and  sometimes  breaking  the  ring  and  forcing 
their  way  into  it.  Olenine  and  Beletsky,  in  Cossack  uni- 
form, were  standing  in  the  shadow  discussing-  the  best  way 
of  getting  Marianka  and  Oustinka  out  of  the  ring.  Be- 
letsky supposed  that  his  companion  only  wanted  a little 
fun,  but  Olenine  was  tremblingly  awaiting  a decision  that 
was  to  affect  his  whole  future  life.  He  was  determined  to 
obtain  a decisive  answer  from  Marianna.  Would  she  marry 
him  or  not?  He  felt  convinced  that  she  would  refuse,  but 
hi)  hoj)od  to  be  able  to  tell  her  his  feelings  this  time,  and  to 
make  h(;r  understand  the  situation  more  clearly  than  she 
now  seemed  to  do. 

Wliy  dicliiT  you  tell  me  before,  and  I could  have 
arranged  it  througli  Oustinka?/^  remarked  Beletsky- 
‘‘  What  a strange  fellow  you  are!^^ 


THE  COSSACKS. 


145 


How  can  it  be  managed?  Do  devise  some  way!  Some 
day^  soon,  perhaps,  I will  tell  you  all,  but  for  Heaven-’s 
sake  get  her  to  come  down  to  Oustinka^s  house  for  a few 
minutes,  said  Olenine. 

Oh,  that^s  an  easy  matter.  Well,  Marianna,  so  it’s  the 
light-haired  fellow  you’re  going  to  marry,  not  Lukashka?” 
exclaimed  Beletsky,  referring  to  the  words  of  the  song. 

He  addressed  the  remark  to  Marianna,  merely  for  the 
sake  of  appearance,  as  he  approached  Oustinka  and  whis- 
pered to  her  to  bring  her  friend  home  with  her;  but  he  had 
hardly  finished  speaking  when  the  girls  struck  up  another 
song,  and  again  began  dragging  one  another  around  and 
around: 

A handsome  young  fellow  walked  down  the  street, 

As  he  first  passed  by  he  waved  his  hand; 

The  second  time  he  waved  his  hat; 

When  next  he  came  he  paused  and  cried : 

‘ I really  must  see  you,  my  darling  dear. 

Why  won’t  you  come  out  in  the  garden  with  me, 

Can  it  be  that  you  scorn  me,  my  darling  dear? 

Take  care,  for  marry  you  I certainly  shall, 

And  make  you  shed  many  a tear,’  ” 

they  sung  gayly. 

Just  then  Lukashka  and  Nazarka  came  up,  and  the 
former,  tearing  the  girls’  hands  asunder,  dashed  into  the 
middle  of  the  ring  and  began  to  sing  in  a shrill  voice, 
waving  his  arms  all  the  while. 

Come  in  here,  one  of  you,”  he  cried  after  a moment. 

The  young  girls  tried  to  push  Marianna  into  the  ring, 
but  she  would  not  go. 

Lukashka,  as  he  passed  Olenine,  gave  him  a friendly 
nod. 

So  you’ve  come  to  see  the  fun,  too,  Mitri  Andreitch,” 
he  remarked. 

Yes,”  replied  Olenine,  shortly. 

Beletsky  leaned  toward  Oustinka  and  whispered  a word 


146 


THE  COSSACKS. 


or  two  in  her  ear.  She  had  not  time  to  answer  then,  but 
as  she  passed  next  time  she  said  to  him: 

All  right;  we^ll  come. 

And  Marianna?^'' 

Olenine  stepped  to  that  young  girFs  side  and  whispered, 
hurriedly: 

“ WonH  you  come?  Do,  if  only  for  a moment;  I want 
to  speak  to  you. 

If  the  other  girls  go  I will.''^ 

Will  you  give  me  an  answer he  asked,  again  bending 
over  her.  How  gay  you  are  to-day. 

She  moved  on,  but  he  followed  her. 

Will  you  answer  my  question?^'’  he  repeated. 

What  question?^^ 

The  question  I asked  you  yesterday;  if  you  will  marry 
me,’^  he  whispered  in  her  ear. 

Marianna  seemed  to  reflect  a moment. 

I will  give  you  an  answer  this  evening, she  said  at 

last. 

He  fancied  that  her  eyes  shone  almost  caressingly  upon 
him  through  the  darkness,  and  he  would  have  continued  to 
follow  her  on  her  round  had  not  Lukashka  seized  her  by 
the  arm  and  pulled  her  into  the  middle  of  the  ring,  so 
Olenine  had  only  time  to  say: 

Then  come  to  Oustinka^s  house. 

The  singing  ceased;  Lukashka  wiped  his  lips,  Marianna 
did  the  same,  and  they  kissed  each  other. 

“ No,  no,  I want  five,^^  exclaimed  Lukashka,  kissing  the 
now  struggling  girl  repeatedly. 

After  this  the  dancing  ceased,  and  a regular  romp  en- 
sued. 

Lukashka  was  in  the  gayest  possible  spirits,  and  began 
to  distribute  sweetmeats  among  the  girls. 

‘‘  ITn  going  to  give  some  to  all  of  you,^^  he  said,  with 
comical  solemnity.  ‘Mlut  if  there^s  any  girl  that  loves 


THE  COSSACKS.  147 

soldiers  here  I give  her  notice  to  leave/ ^ he  added^  with  a 
rather  malicious  glance  at  Olenin  e. 

The  girls  snatched  the  dainties  eagerly,  and  Beletsky  and 
Olenine  moved  away. 

Lukashka  took  off  his  cap,  wiped  his  forehead  on  his 
sleeve,  and  stepped  up  to  Marianna  and  Oustinka. 

Can  it  he  that  you  scorn  me,  my  darling  dears he 
said,  repeating  the  words  of  the  song.  Then  addressing 
Marianna  only  he  added,  angrily: 

“ Take  care,  for  marry  you  I certainly  shall, 

And  make  you  shed  many  a tear/’ 

Then  he  threw  his  arms  around  both  girls  and  hugged 
them  with  all  his  might. 

Oustinka  jerked  herself  free  and  dealt  him  a heavy  blow 
on  the  back. 

Are  you  going  to  dance  any  more?^^  asked  Lukashka. 

The  other  girls  can  if  they  want  to,  but  I^m  going 
home  now,  aud  I^m  going  to  take  Marianna  with  me.^^ 

Still  keeping  his  arm  around  Marianna^s  waist,  Lukaska 
led  her  a little  way  out  of  the  crowd. 

DonH  go  with  her,  Machinka,^^  he  said.  Go  home 
and  I will  soon  join  you  there. 

Why  should  I go  home?  What  is  the  use  of  a holiday 
if  one  is  not  to  enjoy  one^s  self?  I^m  going  to  Oustinka^s. 

I shall  marry  you,  understand,  all  the  same.^^ 

All  right;  weTl  see  about  that,^^  retorted  Marianna. 

Are  you  really  going?^^  insisted  the  Cossack,  clasping 
Marianna  still  more  closely  and  kissing  her  on  the  cheek. 

Let  me  alone,  will  you?^^ 

And  suddenly  freeing  herself  from  his  embrace,  the  girl 
ran  away. 

YouTl  be  sorry  for  this  some  day,^^  cried  Lukashka, 
shaking  his  head  reproachfully.  ITl  make  you  shed 
many  a tear,  remember. 

Then  turning  away  he  called  out  to  the  other  young  girls 
to  come  and  play  something. 


148 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Marianna  paused,  half  frightened. 

What  do  you  mean?^^  she  asked. 

I mean  that  you^ll  be  sorry  some  day  for  what  you  are 
doing. 

I don^t  understand  you. 

I mean  that  you  are  flirting  with  your  lodger  and  that 
you  don^t  care  for  me  any  more.^^ 

I shall  do  as  I please.  It^s  no  business  of  yours.  You 
are  not  my  father  or  my  mother,  and  you\e  no  right  to 
dictate  to  me.  I shall  like  whom  I please. 

So  what  I heard  is  true,^^  exclaimed  Lukashka. 

Very  well,  remember  what  I have  just  said  to  you. 
Come,  girls,  let^s  have  another  game,  he  cried,  rejoining 
the  group.  Kun  and  get  us  some  wine,  Nazarka. 

Are  they  coming? asked  Olenine,  anxiously. 

Yes,  and  at  once,^^  replied  Beletsky.  Come,  let  us 
hurry  on  and  make  our  preparations  for  the  ball.^^ 


CHAPTER  XXXIX. 

The  night  was  far  spent  when  Olenine  left  Beletsky^s 
cottage  a few  moments  after  the  departure  of  Marianna 
and  Oustinka.  The  moon  was  sinking  below  the  horizon, 
and  a silvery  mist  enveloped  the  now  silent  village.  All 
the  lights  had  been  extinguished  and  a profound  stillness 
reigned,  broken  only  by  the  light  footsteps  of  the  depart- 
ing guests,  whose  white  head  dresses  were  still  dimly  visible 
in  the  distance.  Olenine^s  heart  was  throbbing  tumultu- 
ously, and  his  face  burned  like  fire.  As  he  stepped  out 
into  the  cool  night  air  the  change  was  most  delightful,  and 
he  stood  for  a moment  gazing  up  at  the  starry  sky.  Then 
lie  glaiKjed  bacik  at  the  cottage  he  had  just  left,  and  seeing 
Lhat  the  lights  were  already  out,  he  involuntarily  turned  to 
look  at  the  white  lauidkercliiefs  vanishing  in  the  distance, 
lie  was  so  ha])])y  that  he  could  not  bear  the  thought  of  re- 


THE  COSSACKS.  149 

Hiaining  alone,  so  springing  down  the  steps  he  ran  to  over- 
take the  girls. 

Go  away,  somebody  will  see  you,^^  cried  Oustinka. 

That  makes  no  difference.'’^ 

Olenine  threw  his  arms  around  Marianna  and  pressed  her 
to  his  heart.  She  made  no  resistance. 

Come,  come,  that  will  do,^^  said  Oustinka.  Wait 
until  you^re  married.  YouTl  have  plenty  of  time  to  hug 
her  then. 

Farewell,  Marianka,  I shall  speak  to  your  father  to- 
morrow. Don^t  say  anything  to  him  in  the  meantime.'’'’ 

What  is  there  for  me  to  say?^'’  replied  Marianna,  coolly. 

The  two  girls  ran  off  and  Olenine  walked  on  alone,  re- 
viewing the  events  of  the  evening.  It  had  been  spent 
virtually  alone  with  Marianna  in  a quiet  corner  behind  the 
stove.  Oustinka,  the  other  girls  and  Beletsky  had  not  left 
the  room,  but  they  had  shown  no  disposition  to  interrupt 
the  whispered  conversation  Olenine  was  holding  with 
Marianna. 

Will  you  marry  me?^^  he  asked. 

You  wouldnT  have  me,^^  she  answered,  calmly,  but 
smilingly. 

Do  you  love  me?  Tell  me,  for  God^s  sake!^^  he 
pleaded. 

Why  shouldnT  I love  you?  You^re  not  an  ogre,^^  said 
Marianna,  laughing. 

I am  not  jesting.  Will  you  consent  to  be  my  wife? 
Answer  me,  I beg  of  you?^^ 

Why  shouldn't  I if  my  father  approves. 

If  you  deceive  me  I shall  go  mad.  I will  speak  to 
your  parents  to-morrow. 

Marianna  burst  into  a hearty  laugh. 

Why  do  you  laugh?^^ 

“ It  is  so  funny  !^'’ 

I mean  what  I say.  I will  buy  a cottage  and  a vine- 


150 


THE  COSSACKS. 


yard  and  transform  myself  as  far  as  possible  into  a Cos- 
sack. 

Take  care  and  not  make  love  to  other  women.  I am 
very  jealous. 

Olenine  now  recalled  these  words  with  intense  delight, 
but  at  the  time  the  unruffled  calmness  with  which  they 
were  uttered  had  annoyed  him  not  a little.  She  was  not 
agitated  in  the  least;  indeed,  she  seemed  to  attach  no  im- 
portance to  his  words  and  to  be  entirely  unconscious  of  the 
enviable  position  offered  her.  Perhaps  she  loved  him  just 
at  that  moment,  but  she  seemed  to  have  no  thought  of  the 
future.  He  was  delighted  that  she  had  consented  to  marry 
him,  however,  and  he  tried  hard  to  believe  her. 

Yes,  when  she  is  my  wife,  we  shall  soon  learn  to  under- 
stand each  other.  A few  words  are  not  enough  to  prove 
a love  like  mine;  a whole  life  is  needed.  Everything  must 
be  settled  to-morrow;  I can  not  live  any  longer  in  thi® 
way.  To-morrow  I will  tell  her  father,  Beletsky — every- 
body.^^ 

In  the  meantime  Lukashka  had  taken  so  much  wine 
that  for  the  first  time  in  his  life  he  could  not  stand  erect, 
and  he  slept  away  the  night  in  Yamka^s  saloon. 


CHAPTER  XL. 

Olekihe  woke  later  than  usual  the  next  morning,  and 
with  the  first^moment  of  waking  came  the  thought  of  what 
was  before  him.  He  remembered  with  rapture  the  kisses 
of  the  evening  before,  the  firm  hands  that  had  pressed  his, 
and  the  words:  How  white  your  hands  are!^^ 

He  had  jumped  out  of  bed  with  the  intention  of  going 
immediately  to  make  a formal  request  for  Marianna^s  hand 
in  marriage  when  an  unwonted  commotion  in  the  street 
attracted  his  attention.  I^eoplc  were  hurrying  to  and  fro, 
talking  and  gesticulating  excitedly,  and  horses  were  pawing 
and  neighing.  Olenine  threw  on  his  clothes  and  stepped 


THE  COSSACKS. 


151 


out  on  the  porch.  Five  mounted  Cossacks  were  engaged 
in  a noisy  discussion;  Lukashka^s  voice  could  be  heard 
high  above  the  others.  They  were  all  talking  at  the  same 
time^  and  it  seemed  impossible  to  make  any  sense  out  of 
what  they  were  saying. 

We  ought  to  send  word  to  the  principal  station  at 
once/^  cried  one. 

Let^s  hurry  on  and  try  to  overtake  them.^^ 

Which  road  had  we  better  take?^^ 

There  can  be  no  doubt  on  that  score/^  cried  Lukash- 
ka.  We  must  go  by  the  middle  gate^  of  course. 

Yes,  that  will  be  the  shortest  way/^  answered  a Cos- 
sack, mounted  on  a powerful  horse  and  covered  with  dust. 

Lukashka'^s  face  was  red  and  swollen  from  the  excesses 
of  the  previous  night,  and  his  hat  was  on  the  back  of  his 
head. 

What^s  the  matter?  Where  are  you  going?^^  shouted 
Olenine,  though  he  did  not  make  himself  heard  without 
considerable  dijfficulty. 

We  are  going  out  to  capture  some  Abreks,  and  must 
start  immediately,  though  there  are  hardly  enough  of  us. 

And  the  Cossacks  rode  on,  talking  and  shouting  boister- 
ously. Olenine  felt  obliged  to  accompany  them,  but  hoped 
that  he  would  be  able  to  return  before  very  long,  so  he 
dressed  himself,  loaded  his  rifle,  vaulted  on  his  horse, 
which  had  been  hurriedly  saddled  by  Vania,  and  hastened 
on  to  overtake  the  Cossacks.  Despite  their  haste  they  had 
stopped  to  draw  some  wine  from  a barrel  that  had  been 
brought  out  for  them.  They  poured  the  wine  into  a wood- 
en bowl  and  drank  it  after  a short  prayer  for  the  success  of 
their  enterprise.  A dandyfied  young  cornet  who  chanced 
to  be  at  their  head  had  constituted  himself  commander  of 
the  expedition,  but  in  spite  of  his  lordly  airs  the  Cossacks 
showed  no  intention  of  obejdng  any  one  but  Lukashka. 

As  for  Olenine,  no  one  paid  the  slightest  attention  to 


152 


THE  COSSACKS. 


him.  When  they  had  again  mounted  their  horses  and 
started,  Olenine  rode  up  to  the  cornet  and  asked  for  further 
information,  but  the  youthful  leader,  though  usually  very 
atfable,  answered  in  such  a supercilious  way  that  it  was  not 
without  considerable  difficulty  Olenine  succeeded  in  ascer- 
taning  that  the  patrol  sent  out  in  search  of  Abreks  had 
discovered  several  hiding  in  the  reeds  about  six  miles  from 
the  station.  These  Abreks,  who  were  snugly  ensconced  in 
a ditch,  had  opened  fire  on  the  patrol,  so  leaving  two  Cos- 
sacks to  watch  them  the  corporal  had  come  to  the  station 
in  search  of  reinforcements. 

The  sun  was  rising  when  they  reached  the  steppe,  which 
began  about  three  miles  from  the  village.  Before  them 
stretched  a lonely,  arid  plain.  The  fierce  drought  had 
destroyed  all  vegetation  except  in  the  few  low  and  damp 
spots,  and  the  absence  of  trees  and  the  melancholy  aspect 
of  the  landscape  struck  one  very  forcibly.  At  sunrise  and 
sunset  on  the  steppes  the  sun  always  reminds  one  of  a huge 
ball  of  fire,  and  the  slightest  wind  raises  huge  clouds  of 
sand.  When  the  day  is  calm,  as  it  chanced  to  be  on  this 
occasion,  everything  is  silent  and  motionless. 

The  Cossacks  rode  on  in  silence.  Their  weapons  made 
no  noise;  a Cossack  would  be  ashamed  of  any  such  display 
of  awkwardness.  Two  Cossacks  from  the  station  overtook 
them  and  exchanged  a few  words  with  them,  then  they  all 
rode  on  together  in  silence.  Suddenly  Lukashka^s  horse 
.stumbled;  this  was  an  unfortunate  omen.  The  other  Cos- 
sacks glanced  furtively  at  one  another;  then  hastily  averted 
their  gaze  without  making  any  allusion  to  the  incident, 
fjukashka  frowned  darkly,  set  his  teeth,  and  raised  his 
whip,  ^riic  spirited  animal  reared  and  plunged  as  if  about 
to  take  flight.  Lukashka  gave  him  two  or  three  stinging 
blows,  aud  tlie  horse  reared  still  more  violently,  then 
bounded  foi’ward,  leaving  the  rest  of  the  party  some  dis- 
tance behind  liim. 

I’JiaCs  a line  animal!^^  remarked  the  cornet. 


THE  COSSACKS.  153 

A regular  lion  of  a horse/ ^ responded  one  of  the  Cos^ 
sacks. 

The  party  rode  on,  sometimes  at  a walk,  sometimes  at  a 
trot,  and  at  last  met  a huge  covered  wagon  moving  slowly 
along.  It  was  the  property  of  a wandering  Tartar,  who 
was  moving  his  family  from  one  camp  ground  to  another. 
Two  women  were  gathering  the  droppings  of  the  cattle  to 
serve  as  fuel  in  the  preparation  of  their  morning  repast. 
The  cornet,  who  was  not  familiar  with  their  language, 
questioned  them  without  being  able  to  make  the  timid  and 
terrified  women  understand  him. 

Lukashka  approached  and  accosted  them  familiarly  in 
their  native  tongue,  and  the  women,  greatly  relieved,  an- 
swered him  freely,  as  they  would  have  answered  a com- 
patriot. 

aiy  ai,  cop  AlreTc,^^  they  said,  in  a plaintive  tone, 
pointing  in  the  direction  in  which  the  Cossacks  were  going, 
and  meaning  that  there  was  quite  a large  number  of 
Abreks  hiding  in  the  ambuscade. 

Olenine^s  knowledge  of  these  expeditions  being  derived 
entirely  from  Uncle  Jerochka^s  gtories,  he  was  determined 
to  keep  up  with  his  companions,  and  see  ever3rthing  that 
was  to  be  seen.  He  could  not  help  admiring  the  Cossacks, 
who  listened  eagerly  to  the  slightest  sound,  and  gave  close 
attention  to  the  most  trifling  detail.  Olenine  had  brought 
his  weapons  with  him,  but  seeing  that  the  Cossacks  avoided 
him,  he  decided  to  remain  a neutral  witness  of  the  engage- 
ment. 

A shot  suddenly  resounded  in  the  distance.  The  cornet 
became  excited  and  gave  one  order  after  another,  but  no 
one  listened  to  them.  Everybody  was  watching  Lukashka 
and  waiting  for  instructions  from  him.  Lukashka^s  man- 
ner was  calm  and  even  solemn.  Urging  his  horse  on  so 
swiftly  that  the  others  could  not  keep  pace  with  him,  he 
gazed  eagerly  ahead  of  him,  shading  his  eyes  from  the 
glare  with  his  hand. 


154 


THE  COSSACKS. 


Look^  there a horse  he  exclaimed,  checking  his 
steed  and  falling  into  line  with  the  others. 

Olenine  could  see  no  one;  but  the  keener  vision  of  the 
Cossacks  had  discerned  two  riders  in  the  distance  appar- 
ently coming  straight  toward  the  party. 

Are  they  Abreks  asked  Olenine. 

No  one  deigned  any  response  to  this  absurd  question. 
No  Abrek  would  be  such  a fool  as  to  cross  the  river  with 
his  horse. 

Eadkia  seems  to  be  beckoning  to  us/^  remarked  Lu- 
kashka.  See,  he  is  coming  to  meet  us!^^ 

In  a few  seconds  it  became  very  evident  that  the  riders 
were  really  Cossacks  belonging  to  the  patrol. 

When  the  two  parties  met  the  corporal  walked  straight 
up  to  Lukashka. 


CHAPTER  XLI. 

Are  they  far  olf?^^  asked  Lukashka. 

A shot  resounded  about  thirty  paces  off.  The  corporal 
smiled. 

That  is  Gorka  firing  at  them/^  he  said,  indicating  the 
enemy’s  position  with  a movement  of  the  head. 

After  proceeding  a few  yards  further,  they  could  see 
Gorka  reloading  his  rifie  behind  a small  hillock.  He  was 
amusing  himself  by  firing  at  the  Abreks,  who  were  crouch- 
ing behind  another  hillock  a short  distance  off. 

A bullet  whistled  by.  The  cornet  turned  pale  and  lost 
his  wits  entirely.  Lukashka  sprung  from  his  horse,  threw 
the  bridle  to  one  of  the  Cossacks,  and  ran  toward  Gorka. 
Olenine  followed.  Two  more  bullets  whistled  by  their  ears. 
Lukashka  turned  to  Olenine  with  a laugh  as  he  hastily  bent 
his  liead. 

‘‘  'riieyMl  kill  you,  Andreitch,’’  ho  exclaimed.  Go 
back.  You’ve  no  business  here!” 

Ihit  Olenine  was  determined  to  see  the  Abreks.  He  had 


THE  COSSACKS. 


155 


just  caught  a glimpse  of  their  caps  and  rifles  when  there 
came  a puff  of  smoke,  and  still  another  bullet  whistled  by. 
The  Abreks  were  in  a marshy  spot  at  the  foot  of  a hillock. 
Olenine  was  amazed  at  the  spot  they  had  chosen.  It  was 
level,  like  all  the  rest  of  the  steppe;  but  as  he  looked  at  it  he 
said  to  himself  that  they  could  nowhere  have  found  a place 
better  suited  to  their  purpose. 

Lukashka  turned  suddenly  and  ran  back  to  the  spot 
where  his  horse  was  standing.  Olenine  followed  him. 

We  must  get  a cart  with  some  hay  on  it.  If  we  don^t 
we  shall  all  be  killed, cried  Lukashka.  Go  back  and 
get  that  Tartarus  wagon. 

The  cornet  and  the  corporal  acquiesced.  The  wagon  was 
brought,  and  the  Cossacks,  sheltering  themselves  behind  it, 
began  to  push  it  along  toward  the  enemy.  Olenine  climbed 
the  hillock  to  await  further  developments. 

The  Abreks,  nine  in  number,  were  kneeling  in  a tow 
close  together  and  did  not  fire. 

Suddenly  the  profound  silence  that  had  prevailed  was 
broken  by  a strange,  lugubrious  chant,  similar  to  Uncle 
Jerochka'^s  AH  ddil  dalaldi!  The  Circassians,  seeing  that 
they  could  not  escape  the  Cossacks,  had  bound  themselves 
together  with  strong  leather  straps  to  prevent  themselves 
from  taking  flight,  no  matter  how  strongly  they  might  be 
tempted;  then,  after  loading  their  guns,  they  began  to  sing 
their  death  song. 

The  Cossacks  drew  nearer  and  nearer.  Olenine  expected 
every  instant  to  hear  the  first  discharge;  but  the  silence 
was  broken  only  by  the  lugubrious  song  of  the  Abreks. 
Then  the  singing  suddenly  ceased;  a bullet  struck  the 
wagon.  Fierce  oaths  and  shrill  cries  resounded  from  the 
Abreks.  Shot  followed  shot,  and  bullet  after  bullet  buried 
itself  in  the  hay.  The  Cossacks  did  not  return  the  fire, 
though  they  were  now  only  about  five  yards  from  the 
enemy. 

Another  minute  passed,  and  then  the  Cossacks  darted 


156 


THE  COSSACKS. 


out  from  behind  the  wagon  yelling  savagely.  Lukashka 
was  at  their  head.  Olenine  heard  a rapid  interchange  of 
shots^  a series  of  blood-curdling  yells  and  frightful  groans. 
Leaping  from  his  horse  he  ran  to  join  the  Cossacks.  Hor- 
ror so  obscured  his  vision  that  he  could  see  nothing  clearly; 
but  he  somehow  divined  that  all  was  over. 

Lukashka^  pale  as  deaths  had  seized  a wounded  Circas- 
sian, and  was  shouting: 

Don^t  kill  him!  I^m  going  to  take  him  alive 

It  was  the  brother  of  the  Abrek  Lukashka  had  killed; 
the  same  one  who  came  to  ransom  the  body. 

Lukashka  held  him  in  an  iron  grasp;  but  the  Abrek  sud- 
denly wrenched  himself  free,  and  quick  as  lightning  pulled 
the  trigger  of  his  pistol.  Lukashka  fell  to  the  ground. 
The  blood  gushed  from  his  breast,  but  he  sprung  up  only 
to  fall  again,  however,  swearing  in  Russian  and  Tartar 
alike. 

All  the  Abreks  had  now  been  killed  except  the  man  who 
had  shot  Lukashka.  Like  a wounded  vulture — the  blood 
was  streaming  from  his  right  eye — with  set  teeth  and  glar- 
ing eyes  he  stood  grasping  his  dagger,  resolved  to  defend 
himself  to  the . last.  The  cornet  stole  up  behind  him,  and 
placing  his  pistol  close  to  the  Abrek^s  ear,  fired.  The  man 
sprung  up  in  the  air  with  a frightful  yell  and  fell  dead. 

The  Cossacks  separated  the  dead  men  and  stripped  them 
of  their  weapons.  Lukashka  was  laid  on  the  wagon.  He 
was  still  swearing  and  cursing  his  antagonist. 

You  lie!  ITl  strangle  you  with  my  own  hands!  You 
shanT  escape  me,  you  yellow  devil  !^^  he  cried,  savagely. 

At  last  he  sunk  back  unconscious  from  weakness  and 
loss  of  blood. 

Olenine  returned  home,  and  that  evening  he  was  told 
that  Ijiikashka  was  lying  at  the  point  of  death.  A Tartar 
had  undertaken  to  cure  him  with  herbs,  but  even  the  most 
sanguine  (aitertained  very  little  hope  of  his  recovery.  The 
bodies  of  the  dead  Abreks  had  been  brought  to  the  station. 


THE  COSSACKS.  157 

and  crowds  of  women  and  children  were  flocking  to  see 
them. 

It  was  twilight  when  Olenine  reached  home.  He  felt 
dazed  and  bewildered^  but  soon  recollections  of  the  previous 
evening  — the  evening  spent  with  Marianna  — began  to 
haunt  him,  and  he  seated  himself  at  the  window.  Soon  he 
saw  the  girl  go  from  the  milk-room  to  the  house.  The 
mother  was  in  the  vineyard,  her  father  at  the  government 
house.  Olenine  could  wait  no  longer;  he  felt  that  he  must 
see  the  young  girl. 

When  she  saw  him  come  in,  she  turned  her  back  on 
him.  Olenine  thought  it  was  from  modesty. 

May  I come  on,  Marianna?^'’  he  asked. 

She  hastily  turned  and  confronted  him.  There  were 
tears  in  her  eyes;  her  face  was  beautiful  in  its  grief;  but 
the  look  she  gave  the  young  man  was  full  of  haughty  scorn. 
I came,  Marianna — I came — he  stammered. 

Go  away,  I tell  you!  Go  away!’’ 

The  expression  of  her  face  did  not  change;  but  tears 
were  flowing  in  torrents  from  her  eyes. 

^^'What  is  the  matter?  Why  are  you  weeping?^^ 

Why!^'’  she  exclaimed,  in  a harsh,  hard  voice.  They 
are  slaying  Cossacks;  and  you  ask  me  why  I weep?^'’ 

Is  Lukashka— 

Go  away,  I tell  you.  What  do  you  want  here?^^ 
Marianna 

Go;  you  will  never  obtain  anything  from  me!^^ 
Marianna,  Marianna,  do  not  say  that!^^ 

Get  out  of  my  sight,  cold-blooded  wretch  that  you 
are!^^  cried  the  girl,  stamping  her  foot  angrily,  and  then 
springing  toward  hirii  with  a threatening  gesture. 

There  was  so  much  anger,  contempt,  and  loathing  in  her 
face  that  Olenine  saw  he  had,  indeed,  nothing  to  hope  for; 
and  without  uttering  a word  in  reply,  he  fled  from  the 
house  as  if  pursued  by  the  furies. 


158 


THE  COSSACKS. 


CHAPTER  XLII. 

0]sr  reaching  home  he  threw  himself  on  the  bed,  where  he 
remained  for  two  hours  as  silent  and  motionless  as  if 
stunned;  then  he  went  to  the  commander  of  the  detach- 
ment and  requested  permission  to  return  to  headquarters. 
After  effecting  a settlement  with  his  landlord  through 
Vania,  he  left  for  the  fortress  where  his  regiment  was  sta- 
tioned without  taking  leave  of  any  one.  Uncle  Jerochka, 
who  dropped  in  at  all  hours  of  the  day  and  night,  was  the 
only  person  to  bid  him  God*  speed. 

They  took  several  glasses  of  wine  together.  A three- 
horse  post-wagon  was  standing  at  the  door,  as  at  the  time 
of  his  departure  from  Moscow;  but  Olenine  made  no  at- 
tempt to  analyze  his  feelings,  as  he  had  done  on  that  occa- 
sion. He  no  longer  dreamed  of  a new  life.  He  loved 
Marianna  more  than  ever,  and  knew  that  she  would  never 
return  his  love. 

Good-bye,  good-bye,  father,^^  said  Uncle  Jerochka. 

When  you  go  on  a campaign  be  sensible  and  heed  the  ad- 
vice of  an  old  man.  When  you  come  face  to  face  with  the 
enemy  don^t  stay  in  the  ranks.  As  soon  as  you  fellows  get 
frightened  you  all  huddle  together,  and  that  is  dangerous, 
because  they  always  aim  at  a crowd.  As  for  me,  I always 
kept  off  by  myself  as  much  as  possible,  and  that  is  why  IVe 
never  been  wounded. 

‘‘How  about  the  ball  in  your  back?^^  inquired  Vania, 
who  was  putting  the  room  in  order. 

“ Oh,  that  was  some  deviltry  of  the  Cossacks. 

“ 'I’he  Cossacks repeated  Olenine. 

“ Yes;  they  were  all  drunk,  and  Vanka  Sitkne  shot  me 
in  the  back  just  for  fun.'’^ 

“ Wliat  a shame remarked  Olenine.  “Will  you  be 
ready  soon,  Vania?^^ 


THE  • COSSACKS. 


159 


Why  are  you  in  such  a hurry?  Let  me  finish  my  story. 
The  bullet  didn^t  touch  the  bone^  but  it  remained  in  the 
fiesh.  ^ You\e  killed  me,  brother.  YouTl  have  to  pay 
me  well  for  this.  You  owe  me  at  least  a half  gallon  of 
brandy/  I said  to  him.^^ 

Did  it  hurt  you  much?^^  asked  Olenine,  who  was  only 
half  listening. 

Let  me  finish  my  story.  He  gave  me  the  wine,  and 
we  all  drank — the  blood  was  still  fiowing — the  fioor  was 
covered  with  it.  After  we  finished  the  brandy,  old  Bour- 
dak  said:  ^ The  fellow^s  going  to  die.  Give  us  another 
gallon  or  ITl  hand  you  over  to  the  authorities.''  Well,  he 
gave  us  the  wine,  and  we  drank  until  broad  daylight.  I 
went  to  sleep  on  the  stove,  and  the  next  morning  I couldn^t 
move  hand  or  foot. 

Did  it  injure  you  seriously?^^  repeated  Olenine,  think- 
ing it  j)0ssible  that  he  might  receive  an  answer  to  his  ques- 
tion this  time. 

Do  you  suppose  I minded  a trifie  like  that.  No;  but 
my  limbs  were  stiff,  and  I couldnT  walk  for  awhile. 

You  lived  through  it,  though,  said  Olenine,  who 
could  not  muster  up  courage  to  smile,  his  heart  was  so 
heavy. 

Oh,  yes,  I was  soon  all  right  again;  but  the  bullet  is 
still  there.  Feel  it."^ 

And  the  old  man  unbuttoned  his  shirt  and  bared  his 
broad  shoulders  where  the  bullet  was  plainly  visible  near 
the  backbone. 

See  how  it  moves  about,  said  the  old  hunter,  amusing 
himself  with  the  ball  as  with  a toy. 

Will  Lukashka  live?^^  asked  Olenine. 

God  knows!  There^s  no  doctor  here,  but  theyVe  sent 
for  one. 

To  Groznoia?"^ 

Oh,  no,  father.  If  I were  the  czar,  I^d  have  hung  all 
your  Russian  doctors  long  ago.  They  donT  know  how  to 


160 


THE  COSSACKS. 


do  anything  but  cut  and  hack.  They  cut  off  Balaschew^s 
leg  and  -crippled  him.  That  shows  what  fools  they  are. 
What  is  Balaschew  good  for  now,  I^d  like  to  know?  No, 
father,  they\e  gone  up  in  the  mountains  to  get  a real  doc- 
tor. A friend  of  mine  was  wounded  in  the  breast  once, 
and  the  Eussian  doctors  gave  him  uj),  but  Saib  cured  him 
in  a little  while.  The  people  who  live  in  the  mountains 
Iviiow  all  about  herbs. 

Nonsense!  they^re  nothing  but  a set  of  ignorant 
quacks.  I^m  going  to  send  the  surgeon  that  belongs  to  our 
regiment. 

Quacks retorted  the  old  hunter,  highly  incensed. 

And  you ^11  send  a surgeon?  Nonsense!  If  your  physi- 
cians had  any  sense  our  Cossacks  would  go  to  you  to  be 
cured;  but  even  your  own  officers  send  to  the  mountains 
for  our  doctors.  You’re  nothing  but  frauds,  all  of  you.” 

Olenine  made  no  reply,  for  he  too  was  of  the  opinion  that 
everything  in  the  world  he  had  recently  left,  and  to  which 
he  was  about  to  return,  was  a hollow  mockery. 

Have  you  seen  Lukashka?  How  is  he?”  he  inquired. 

He  lies  like  a dead  man,  and  neither  eats  nor  drinks, 
though  he  takes  a little  brandy  when  they  pour  it  down  his 
throat.  It  makes  me  feel  really  sad  to  look  at  him,  for  he 
was  a brave  fellow.  I was  at  death’s  door  once  myself. 
The  old  women  were  howling  around  me;  my  head  seemed 
to  be  on  fire,  and  they  had  already  laid  me  under  the  holy 
images.  I lay  there  perfectly  motionless,  and  it  seemed  to 
me  that  hundreds  of  little  drummer  boys  were  beating  the 
reveille  upon  the  stove.  I begged  them  to  stop,  but  they 
only  beat  the  louder.”  Here  the  old  man  laughed  as  if  he 
thouglit  it  a capital  joke.  Pretty  soon  the  women 
brought  a priest  to  see  me.  He  was  a scapegrace,  who 
made  love  to  the  women,  gorged  himself  with  good  things, 
and  played  the  lalalaika,  I confessed  to  him.  ‘ I have 
sinned,  fatlier,’  sjiid  I.  Then  he  began  to  preach  to  me  on 
the  sin  of  playing  the  balalaika,  ^ Give  me  the  accursed 


THE  COSSACKS. 


161 


instrument  so  I can  destroy  it/  said  he.  ^ I haven^t  any/ 
I replied^  for  I had  hidden  it  in  one  of  the  out-buildings, 
knowing  they  would  not  be  likely  to  find  it  there.  Well, 
at  last  they  concluded  to  let  me  alone,  and  I soon  recovered 
and  began  to  play  the  guitar  again.  But  what  was  I talk- 
ing about?  Oh,  yes,  I remember  now.  Take  my  advice 
and  dbnT  remain  in  the  ranks.  They  will  kill  you  if  you 
do;  and  I should  be  very  sorry  to  hear  it.  You  are  a good 
drinker,  and  I like  a good  drinker.  You  Eussians  are  all 
fond  of  climbing  every  little  hill  you  come  to.  There  was 
a young  Eussian  here  who  always  ran  and  climbed  a hill  as 
soon  as  he  saw  it.  One  day  he  climbed  one  and  an  Abrek 
saw  him  and  killed  him,,  Oh,  those  Abreks  are  cunning 
fellows,  and  shoot  even  better  than  I do!  It  amazes  me 
when  I look  at  your  soldiers.  What  fools  they  are!  They 
all  keep  close  together  and  wear  red  collars,  just  as  if  they 
wanted  to  be  killed.  One  falls;  they  carry  him  off  the 
field,  and  another  man  takes  his  place.  How  stupid!  Why 
doesn^t  each  man  go  off  by  himself?  It  would  be  much 
more  sensible.  Do  as  I say,  and  then  the  enemy  wonT 
hurt  you."^^ 

Thank  you,  uncle,  said  Olenine,  rising  and  moving 
toward  the  door.  We  shall  meet  again  some  day,  God 
willing. 

The  old  Cossack  remained  seated  on  the  fioor. 

^^Is  this  any  way  to  part,  simpleton  ?^''  he  growled. 
We^ve  kept  company  for  a whole  year;  and  you  think  a 
cool  good-bye  is  all  that  is  necessary.  You  have  no  idea 
how  fond  I am  of  you,  and  how  much  I pity  you.  You 
always  seem  to  be  so  sad  and  lonely!  I canT  sleep  at  night 
for  thinking  of  you.^  How  true  are  the  words  of  the  song: 

“ It  is  hard,  my  brother,  to  dwell  in  a foreign  land!’^ 

Farewell,  then,^^  said  Olenine. 

The  old  man  rose  and  held  out  his  hand.  Olenine  shook 
it  cordially. 


162 


THE  COSSACKS. 


'No y give  me  your  face/^  said  the  old  hunter;  and  tak- 
ing Olenine^s  face  between  his  two  brawny  hands,  he  kissed 
him  three  times,  and  then  burst  into  tears.  I love  you; 
good-bye,  he  faltered,  with  great  apparent  emotion. 

Olenine  seated  himself  in  the  wagon. 

What!  can  it  be  that  you^re  going  off  without  giving 
me  anything  to  remember  you  by?^^  cried  the  old  man. 

I think  you  might  give  me  one  of  your  rifles,  at  least; 
you  have  two,^^  he  added,  with  another  burst  of  tears. 

Olenine  picked  up  one  of  his  rifles  and  handed  it  to  him. 

YouVe  given  him  enough  and  more  than  enough 
already,  growled  Vania.  There  ^s  no  such  thing  as  sat- 

isfying the  old  cormorant. 

^^Hold  your  tongue,  you  miser  exclaimed  Uncle 
Jerochka,  laughing. 

As  he  spoke,  Marianna  stepped  out  on  the  porch,  cast  an 
indifferent  glance  at  the  departing  travelers,  then  with  a 
careless  nod  turned  and  went  back  into  the  house  again. 

La  filler^  exclaimed  Vania,  with  a meaning  wink. 

Go  on!^’  cried  Olenine,  angrily. 

Good-bye,  father,  good-bye.  I shall  often  think  of 
you!^^  cried  Uncle  Jerochka. 

After  going  a short  distance  Olenine  turned  and  looked 
behind  him.  Uncle  Jerochka  and  Marianna  were  engaged 
in  earnest  conversation,  evidently  about  their  own  affairs, 
for  neither  of  them  vouchsafed  him  a parting  glance. 


THE  END. 


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1 Lady  Valworth’s  Diamonds.  By 

“The  Duchess” 25 

2 A True  Magdalen.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 25 

3 A House  Party,  and  Afternoon 

and  Other  Sketches.  By 
“ Ouida.” 25 

4 For  Another's  Sin;  or,  A Strug- 

gle for  Love.  By  Charlotte 
M.  Braeme 25 

5 Mohawks.  By  Miss  M.  E.  Brad- 

don.  First  half 25 

5 Mohawks.  By  Miss  M.  E.  Brad- 

don.  Second  half 25 

6 Dick’s  Sweetheart;  or,  “ O Ten- 

der Dolores !”  “ The  Duchess  ” 25 

7 A Woman’s  Error.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 25 

8 Lady  Branksmere.  By  “ The 

Duchess” 25 

9 The  World  Between  Them.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme 25 

10  Wife  in  Name  Only.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 25 

11  Kidnapped.  By  Robert  Louis 

Stevenson 25 

12  A Mental  Struggle.  By  “The 

Duchess” 25 

13  Strange  Case  of  Dr.  Jekyll  and 

Mr.  Hyde,  and  Prince  Otto.  By 
Robert  Louis  Stevenson 25 

14  Thorns  and  Orange-Blossopas. 

By  Charlotte  M.  Braeme 26 

15  Set  in  Diamonds.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 25 


NO.  PRICE. 

16  A Broken  Wedding-Ring.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme 25 

17  Her  Martyrdom.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 25 

18  Beyond  Pardon.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 25 

19  Doris’s  Fortune.  By  Florence 

Warden ' 25 

20  Doctor  Cupid.  Rhoda  Broughton  25 

21  The  Guilty  River.  Wilkie  Collins  25 

22  A Golden  Heart.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme  25 

23  By  Woman’s  Wit.  Mrs.Alexander  25 

24  She:  A History  of  Adventure. 

By  H.  Rider  Haggard 25 

25  Pure  Gold.  By  Mrs.  H.  Lovett 

Cameron.  First  half 25 

25  Pure  Gold.  By  Mrs.  H.  Lovett 

Cameron.  Second  half 25 

26  A Cardinal  Sin.  Hugh  Conwaj’^  25 

27  My  Friend  Jim.  W.  E.  Norris.  25 

28  That  Other  Person.  By  Mrs.  Al- 

fred Hunt.  First  half 25 

28  That  Other  Person.  By  Mrs.  Al- 

fred Hunt.  Second  half 25 

29  Called  Back.  Bj^  Hugh  Conway  25 

30  The  Witch’s  Head.  By  H.  Rider 

Haggard 25 

31  King  Solomon’s  Mines.  By  H. 

Rider  Haggard 25 

32  Alice’s  Adventures  in  Wonder- 

land. By  Lewis  Carroll 25 

33  At  War  With  Herself.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 25 

34  Fair  Women.  By  Mrs.  Forrester  25 


2 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRAKY~25-Cent  Edition. 


85  A Fallen  Idol.  By  F.  Anstey. . . 25 

86  The  Mark  of  Cain.  By  Andrew 

Lang 25 

87  A Crimson  Stain.  By  Annie 

Bradshaw 25 

88  At  Bay.  By  Mrs.  Alexander....  25 

39  Vice  Versa  By  F.  Anstey 25 

40  The  Case  of  Reuben  Malachi.  By 

H.  Sutherland  Edwards 25 

41  The  Mayor  of  Casterbridge.  By 

Thomas  Hardy 25 

42  New  Arabian  Nights.  By  Rob- 

ert Louis  Stevenson 25 

43  Dark  Days.  By  Hugh  Conway.  25 

44  King  Arthur.  By  Miss  Mulock. . 25 

45  Living  or  Dead.  Hugh  Conway  25 

46  A Wicked  Girl.  Mary  Cecil  Hay  25 

47  Bound  by  a Spell.  Hugh  Conway  25 

48  Beaton’s  Bargain.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  25 

49  I Have  Lived  and  Loved.  By 

Mrs.  Forrester 25 

50  The  Secret  of  Her  Life.  By  Ed- 

ward Jenkins 25 

51  The  Haunted  Chamber.  By 

“ The  Duchess  ” 25 

52  Uncle  Max.  By  Rosa  Nouchette 

Carey.  First  half 25 

62  Uncle  Max.  By  Rosa  Nouchette 
Carey.  Second  half 25 

53  Maid,  Wife,  or  Widow  ? and 

Ralph  Wilton’s  Weird.  By 
Mrs.  Alexander 

54  A Woman’s  Temptation.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme 25 

55  Once  Again.  Mrs.  Forrester 25 

56  Vera  Nevill;  or,  Poor  Wisdom’s 

Chance.  Mrs.H.Lovett  Cameron  25 

57  The  Outsider.  Hawley  Smart. . 25 

58  Jess.  By  H.  Rider  Haggard 25 

59  Dora  Thorne.  By  Charlotte  M. 

Braeme 25 

60  Queenie’s  Whim.  By  Rosa  Nou- 

chette Carey,  1st  half 25 

60  Queenie’s  Whim.  By  Rosa  Nou- 

chette Carey.  2d  half 25 

61  Hilaiy’s  Folly.  By  Charlotte  M. 

Braeme 25 

62  Barbara  Heathcote’s  Trial.  By 

Rosa  N.  Carey.  1st  half 25 

62  Barbara  Heathcote’s  Trial.  By 

Rosa  N.  Carey.  2d  half 25 

63  Between  Two  Sins,  and  Wedded 

and  Parted.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme 26 

64  A Bachelor’s  Blunder.  By  W. 

E.  Norris 25 

66  Nellie’s  Memories.  Rosa  Nou- 

chette Carey.  1st  half 25 

65  Nellie’s  Memories.  Rosa  Nou- 

chette Carey.  2d  half 25 

66  Repented  at  Tj(dsure.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 25 

67  Woo(h1  an{l  Married.  By  llosa 

Nonrlietb*  Curey.  Ist  linlf. 25 

67  Wooed  and  Married.  By  Rosa 

Nouchette  (Jany.  2diiair...  26 

68  The  Merry  Men.  By  Robert 

Louis  Stevenson 25 


69  Not  Like  Other  Girls.  By  Rosa 

Nouchette  Carey 25 

70  Othmar.  By  “ Ouida.”  Ist  half  2.5 

70  Othmar.  By  “Ouida.”  2d  half  26 

71  Robert  Ord’s  Atonement.  By 

Rosa  Nouchette  Carey 25 

72  Sunshine  and  Roses.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 25 

73  For  Lilias.  By  Rosa  Nouchette 

Carey.  First  half 25 

73  For  Lilias.  By  Rosa  Nouchette 

Carey.  Second  half. . • 25 

74  Les  Mis6rables.  By  Victor 

Hugo.  Part  1 25 

74  Les  Mis6rables.  By  Victor 

Hugo.  Part  II 25 

74  Les  Mis6rables.  By  Victor 

Hugo.  Part  HI 25 

75  One  Thing  Needful.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 25 

76  The  Master  Passion.  By  Flor- 

ence Marry  at 25 

77  Marjorie.  Charlotte  M.  Braeme  25 

78  Under  Two  Flags.  By  “ puida”  25 

79  The  Dark  House.  By  George 

Manville  Fenn 25 

80  The  House  on  the  Marsh.  By 

Florence  Warden 25 

81  In  a Grass  Country.  By  Mrs.  H. 

Lovett  Cameron 25 

82  Why  Not?  By  Florence  Marry  at  25 

83  Weavers  and  Weft;  or,  “ Love 

That  Hath  Us  in  His  Net.” 

By  Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 25 

84  The  Professor.  By  Charlotte 

Bront6 25 

85  The  Trumpet-Major.  By  Thomas 

Hardy 25 

86  The  Dead  Secret.  Wilkie  Collins  25 

87  Deldee;  or,  The  Iron  Hand.  By 

Florence  Warden 25 

88  Springhaven.  R.  D.  Blackmore. 

First  half 25 

88  Springhaven.  R.  D.  Blackmore. 

Second  half 25 

89  A Vagrant  Wife.  By  Florence 

Warden 25 

90  Struck  Down.  By  Hawley  Smart  25 

91  At  the  World’s  Mercy.  By  Flor- 

ence Warden 26 

92  Claribel’s  Love  Story;  or, Love’s 

Hidden  Depths.  By  Charlotte 
M.  Braeme 25 

93  The  Shadow  of  a Sin.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 25 

94  Court  Royal.  By  S.  Baring- 

Gould 25 

95  Faith  and  Unfaith.  By  “The 

Duchess” 25 

96  Cherry  Ripe.  By  Helen  B. 

Mathers 25 

97  Little  Tu’peimy.  By  S.  Baring- 

Gould 25 

98  Cometh  Up  as  a Flower.  By 

Rhoda  Broughton 25 

99  From  Gloom  to  Sunlight.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme 25 

100  Redeemc'd  by  Love.  By  Ciiar- 
lotte  M.  Braeme . 20 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRAKY— 25  Cent  Edition. 


8 


101  A Woman’s  War.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 

102  ’Twixt  Smile  and  Tear.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme 

103  Lady  Diana’s  Pride.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 

104  Sweet  Cymbeline.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 

105  The  Belle  of  Lynn.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 

106  Dawn.  By  H.  Rider  Haggard . . 

107  The  Tinted  Venus.  B3’F.Anstey 

108  Addie’s  Husband;  or,  Through 

Clouds  to  Sunshine 

109  The  Rabbi’s  Spell.  By  Stuart 

C.  Cumberland 

110  Cornin’  Thro’  the  Rye.  By 

Helen  B.  Mathers 

111  Phyllis.  By  “ The  Duchess  ' ’ . . 

112  Tinted  Vapours.  ByJ.  Maclaren 

Cobban 

113  A Haunted  Life.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 

114  The  Woodlanders.  By  Thomas 

Hardy 

115  Wee  Wifle.  By  Rosa  Nouchette 

Carey 

116  Worth  Winning.  By  Mrs.  H. 

Lovett  Cameron 

117  Sabina  Zembra.  By  William 

Black.  First  half 

117  Sabina  Zembra.  By  William 

Black.  Second  half 

118  For  Maimie’s  Sake.  By  Grant 

Allen 

119  Good-bye,  Sweetheart  1 By 

Rhoda  Broughton 

120  Dolores.  By  Mrs.  Forrester 

121  Rossmoyne.  By  “The Duchess” 

122  A Girl’s  Heart 

123  Garrison  Gossip:  Gathered  in 

Biankhampton.  By  John 
Sti*ange  Winter 

124  File  No.  113.  By  Emile  Gaboriau 

125  King  Solomon’s  Wives.  By 

Hyder  Ragged 

126  He.  By  the  author  of  “ King 

Solomon’s  Wives” 

127  The  Romance  of  a Poor  Young 

Man.  By  Octave  Feuillet 

128  Hilda.  By  Charlotte  M.  Braeme 

129  The  Master  of  the  Mine.  By 

Robert  Buchanan 

130  Portia.  By  “ The  Duchess  ”... 

131  Matt:  A Tale  of  a Caravan. 

By  Robert  Buchanan 

132  Mrs.  Geoffrey.  “ The  Duchess  ” 

133  June.  By  Mrs.  Forrester 

134  In  Durance  Vile.  By  “ The 

Duchess  ” 

135  Diana  Carew.  Mrs.  Forrester. 

136  Loys,  Lord  Berresford.  By 

“ The  Duchess  ” 

137  My  Lord  and  My  Lady.  By  Mrs. 

Forrester 

138  Airy  Fairy  Lilian.  By  “ The 

Duchess  ” 

139  Viva.  By  Mrs.  Forrester 

140  Molly  Bawn.  “ The  Duchess  ” 


141  Rhona.  By  Mrs.  Forrester 25 

142  Beauty’s  Daughters.  By  “ The 

Duchess” 25 

143  A Maiden  All  Forlorn.  By  “ The 

Duchess” 25 

144  The  Mystery  of  Colde  Fell;  or, 

Not  Proven.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme...  25 

145  Borderland  Jessie  Fothergill  25 

146  A Prince  of  Darkness.  By 

Florence  Warden 25 

147  Roy  and  Viola.  By  Mrs.  For- 

148  Doris.  By  “ The  Duchess  ” 25 

149  Mignon.  By  Mrs.  Forrester. . . 25 

150  The  Crime  of  Christmas  Day. . . 25 

151  The  Squire’s  Darling.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 26 

152  Robur  the  Conqueror.  By  Jules 

Verne 25 

153  A Dark  Marriage  Morn.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme 25 

154  Within  an  Inch  of  His  Life.  By 

Emile  Gaboriau 25 

155  Other  People’s  Money.  By 

Emile  Gaboriau 25 

156  Gold  Elsie.  By  E.  Marlitt 25 

157  Her  Second  Love,  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 25 

158  East  Lynne.  By  Mrs.  Henry 

Wood.  First  half 26 

158  East  Lynne.  By  Mrs.  Henry 

Wood.  Second  half 25 

159  On  Her  Wedding  Morn.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme 25 

160  Allan  Quatermain.  By  H.  Rider 

Haggard 25 

161  The  Duke’s  Secret.  By  Char- 

lotte M Braeme 25 

162  Old  Ma’m’selle’s  Secret.  By  E. 

Marlitt 25 

163  The  Shattered  Idol.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 25 

164  A Modern  Circe.  By  “ The  Duch- 

ess ” 25 

165  Handy  Andy.  A Tale  of  Irish 

Life.  By  Samuel  Lover 25 

166  The  Earl’s  Error.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme 25 

167  Scheherazade:  A London 

Night’s  Entertainment.  By 
Florence  Warden . .’ 25 

168  The  Duchess.  By  “ The  Duch- 

ess”  25 

169  Marvel.  By  “ The  Duchess  ”. . . 25 

170  Driver  Dallas.  By  J.  S.  Winter.  25 

171  Home  Again.  By  George  Mac- 

donald  25 

172  The  Frozen  Pirate.  By  W.  Clark 

Russell 25 

173  Faust.  By  Goethe 25 

174  The  Three  Guardsmen.  By  Alex-  , 

ander  Dumas 25 

175  Moths.  By“Ouida” ....25 

176  The  Moonstone.  Wilkie  Collins  26 

177  Jane  Eyre.  Charlotte  Bront6. . 25 

178  Old  Myddleton’s  Money.  By 


Mary  Cecil  Hay .....  >26 


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THE  SEASIDE  LIBIIARY— 25  Cent  Edition. 


179  Harry  Lorrequer.  By  Charles 

Lever 25 

180  Middlemarcb.  By  George  Eliot. 

First  half 25 

180  Middlemarch.  By  George  Eliot. 

Second  half 25 

181  Monsieur  Lecoq.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau.  Vol.  1 25 

181  Monsieur  Lecoq.  By  Emile 

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182  20,000  Leagues  Under  the  Seas. 

By  Jules  Verne 25 

183  Charles  O’Malley,  the  Irish  Dra- 

goon. Charles  Lever.  1st  half  25 

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184  The  Tour  of  the  World  in  80 

Days.  By  Jules  Verne 25 

186  John  Halifax,  Gentleman.  By 
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185  John  Halifax,  Gentleman.  By 

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186  Adam  Bede.  By  George  Eliot. 

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186  Adam  Bede.  By  George  Eliot. 

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187  The  Wreck  of  the  “ Grosvenor.” 

By  W.  Clark  Russell 25 

188  Masaniello;  or,  The  Fisherman 

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192  Lady  Grace.  By  Mrs.  Henry 

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193  Hidden  Perils.  By  Mary  Cecil 

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194  The  Last  Days  of  Pompeii.  By 

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195  Twenty  Years  After.  By  Alex- 

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196  Lady  Audley’s  Secret.  By  Miss 

M.  E.  Braddon 25 

197  Signa’s  Sweetheart.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 25 

198  Mona’s  Choice.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  25 

199  The  Bride  of  the  Nile.  By 

George  Ebers.  First  half  — 25 

199  The  Bride  of  the  Nile.  By 

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200  Confessions  of  an  English  Opi- 

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201  A Life  Interest.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

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202  The  Lady  of  the  Lake.  By  Sir 

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203  The  13th  Hussars.  By  Emile 

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204  A Queer  Race.  By  William 

Westall 25 

205  Only  the  Governess.  By  Rosa 

Nouchette  Carey 25 


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NUMEEICAL  LIST. 


1 Yolande.  By  William  Black. . 20 

2 Molly  Bawn.  “ The  Duchess  ” 20 

3 Mill  on  the  Floss,  The.  By 

George  Eliot. 20 

4 Under  Two  Flags.  By“Ouida”  20 

5 Admiral’s  Ward,  The.  By  Mrs. 

Alexander 20 

6 Portia.  By  “ The  Duchess  ”...  20 

7 File  No.  113.  By  Emile  Gaboriau  20 

8 East  Lynne.  By  Mrs.  Henry- 

Wood.  1st  and  2d  half,  each  20 

9 Wanda,  Countess  von  Szalras. 

By  “Ouida” 20 

10  Old  Curiosity  Shop,  The.  By 

Charles  Dickens 20 

11  John  Halifax.  Gentleman.  By 
Miss  Mulock.  2 parts,  each.  20 

12  Other  People's  Money.  By 

Emile  Gaboriau 20 

13  Eyre’s  Acquittal.  By  Helen  B. 

Mathers 10 

14  Airy  Fairy  Lilian.  By  “ The 

Duchess” 10 

15  JaneEju-e.  By  Charlotte  Bront6  20 

16  Phyllis.  By  ” The  Duchess  ”. . 20 

17  Wooing  C’t,  The.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  20 

18  Shandon  Bells.  By  Wm.  Black  20 

19  Her  Mother’s  Sin.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  ” Dora 
Thorne” 10 

20  Within  an  Inch  of  His  Life. 

By  Emile  Gaboriau 20 

21  Sunrise : A Story  of  These  Times 

By  Wm.  Black 20 

22  David  Copperfield.  By  Charles 

Dickens.  Vol.  1 20 

22  David  Copperfield.  By  Charles 
Dickens.  Vol,  II 20 


23  Princess  of  Thule,  A.  By  Will- 

iam Black 20 

24  Pickwick  Papers.  By  Charles 

Dickens.  Vol.  1 20 

24  Pickwick  Papers.  By  Charles 

Dickens.  Vol.  II 20 

25  Mrs.Geoffrey.  “ The  Duchess.” 

(Large  type  edition) 20 

950  Mrs. Geoffrey.  “The Duchess”  10 

26  Monsieur  Lecoq.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau.  Vol.^  1 20 

26  Monsieur  Lecoq.  By  Emile 


Gaboriau.  Vol.  II 20 

27  Vanity  Fair.  By  William  M. 

Thackeray.  Two  parts,  each  20 

28  Ivanhoe.  By  Sir  Walter  Scott.  20 

29  Beauty’s  Daughters.  By  “ The 

Duchess” 10 

30  Faith  and  Unfaifch.  By  “ The 

Duchess” 20 

31  Middlemarch.  By  George  Eliot. 

First  half 20 

31  Middlemarch.  By  George  Eliot. 

Second  half 20 

32  Land  Leaguers,  The.  By  An- 

thony Trollope 20 

33  Clique  of  Gold,  The.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau 20 

34  Daniel  Deronda.  By  George 

Eliot.  First  half 20 

34  Daniel  Deronda.  By  George 

Eliot.  Second  half 20 

35  Lady  Audley’s  Secret.  By  Miss 

M.  E.  Braddon 20 

36  Adam  Bede.  By  George  Eliot. 

In  Two  Parts,  each 20 


37  Nicholas  Nickleby.  By  Charles 
Dickens.  In  Two  Parts,  each  20 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY-  Pocket  Edition, 


88  Widow  Lerouge,  The.  By  Emil© 

Gaboriau 20 

89  In  Silk  Attire.  By  William  Black  20 

40  Last  Days  of  Pompeii,  The.  By 

Bulwer  Lytton 20 

41  Oliver  Twist.  By  Chas.  Dickens  20 

42  Romola.  By  Georg©  Eliot 20 

43  Mystery  of  Orcival,  The.  By 

Emil©  Gaboriau 20 

,44  Macleod  of  Dare.  Wm.  Black.  20 

45  Little  Pilgrim,  A.  By  Mrs.  Oli- 

phant 10 

46  Very  Hard  Cash.  By  Charles 

Read© 20 

47  Altiora  Peto.  By  Laurence  Oli- 

phant 20 

48  Thicker  Than  Water.  By  James 

Payn 20 

49  That  Beautiful  Wretch.  By 

William  Black 20 

60  Strange  Adventures  of  a Phae- 

ton, The.  By  William  Black.  20 

61  Dora  Thorne.  By  Charlotte  M. 

Braeme 20 

62  New  Magdalen,  The.  By  Wilkie 

Collins 10 

63  Story  of  Ida,  The.  By  Francesca  10 

64  Broken  Wedding-Ring,  A.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 

of  “ Dora  Thorn©  ” 20 

66  Three  Guardsmen,  The.  By 

Alexander  Dumas 20 

66  Phantom  Fortune.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

57  Shirley.  By  Charlotte  Bronte.  20 

58  By  the  Gate  of  the  Sea.  By  D. 

Christie  Murray 10 

69  Vice  Versa.  By  F.  Anstey 20 

60  Last  of  the  Mohicans,  The.  By 

J.  Fenimore  Cooper 20 

61  Charlotte  Temple.  By  Mrs. 

Rowson 10 

62  Executor,  The.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  20 

63  Spy,  The.  By  J.  Fenimore 

Cooper 20 

64  Maiden  Fair,  A.  Charles  Gibbon  10 
66  Back  to  the.  Old  Home.  By 

Mary  Cecil  Hay 10 

66  Romance  of  a Poor  V oung  Man, 

The.  By  Octave  Feuillet 10 

67  Lorna  Doone.  By  R.  D.  Black- 

more.  First  half 20 

67  Lorna  Doone.  By  R.  D.  Black- 

more.  Second  half 20 

68  Queen  Amongst  Women,  A.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 

of  “Dora  Thorne” 10 

06  Madolin’s  Lover.  By  Charlotte 
M.  Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorr)o” 20 

70  White  Wings  A Yachting  Ro- 

mance. By  William  Black  ..  10 

71  Struggle  for  Fame,  A.  liy  Mrs. 

J.  H.  Riddell 20 

72  Old  Myddelton’g  Money.  By 

Mary  Cecil  Hay 20 


Redeemed  by  Love;  or,  Love’s 
Victory.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 

Thorne  ” 20 

Aurora  Floyd.  By  Miss  M.  E. 

Braddon 20 

Twenty  Years  After.  By  Alex- 
ander Dumas 20 

Wife  in  Name  Only;  or,  A Bro- 
ken Heart.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 

Thorne  ” 20 

Tale  of  Two  Cities,  A.  By 

Charles  Dickens 20 

Madcap  Violet.  By  Wm.  Black  20 
Wedded  and  Parted.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 

“Dora  Thorne” 10 

June.  By  Mrs.  Forrester 20 

Daughter  of  Heth,  A.  By  Will- 
iam Black 20 

Sealed  Lips.  F.  Du  Boisgobey.  20 
Strange  Story,  A.  By  Sir  E. 

Bulwer  Lytton 20 

Hard  Times.  By  Chas.  Dickens  10 
Sea  Queen,  A.  By  W.  Clark 

Russell 20 

Belinda.  By  Rhoda  Broughton  20 
Dick  Sand;  or,  A Captain  at 

Fifteen.  By  Jules  Verne 20 

Privateersman,  The.  By  Cap- 
tain Marryat 20 

Red  Eric,  The.  By  R.  M.  Ballan- 

tyne 10 

Ernest  Maltravers.  By  Sir  E. Bul- 
wer Lytton 20 

Barnaby  Rudge.  By  Charles 

Dickens.  First  half 20 

Barnaby  Rudge.  By  Charles 

Dickens.  Second  half 20 

Lord  Lynne’s  Choice.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 

“Dora  Thorne” 10 

Anthony  Trollope’s  Autobiog- 
raphy’'  20 

Little  Dorrit.  By  Charles  Dick- 
ens. First  half 20 

Little  Dorrit.  By  Charles  Dick- 
ens. Second  half 20 

Fire  Brigade,  The.  By  R.  M. 

Ballantyne-. 10 

Erling  the  Bold.  By  R.  M.  Bal- 
lantyne  10 

All  in  a Garden  Fair.  By  Wal- 
ter Besant 20 

Woman-Hater,  A.  By  Charles 

Read© 20 

Barbara’s  History.  By  Amelia 

B.  Edwards 20 

20,000  Leagues  Under  the  Seas. 

By  Jules  Verne 20 

Second  Thoughts.  By  Rhoda 

Broughton 20 

Moonstone,  The.  Wilkie  Collins  20 
Rose  Fleming,  By  Dora  Russell  10 
Coral  Pin,  The.  By  F.  Du  Bois- 
gobey. 1st  half 20 

Coral  Pin,  The.  By  F.  Du  Bois- 
gobey. 2d  half  ...  20 


73 

74 

75 

76 

77 

78 

79 

80 

81 

82 

83 

84 

85 

86 

87 

88 

89 

90 

91 

91 

92 

93 

94 

94 

95 

96 

97 

98 

99 

100 

101 

102 

103 

104 

104 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Edition. 


105  Noble  Wife,  A.  John  Saunders  20 

106  lileak  House.  By  Charles  Dick- 

ens. First  half — 20 

106  Bleak  House.  By  Charles  Dick- 

ens. Second  half 20 

107  Dombey  and  Son.  By  Charles 

Dickens.  First  half 20 

107  Dombey  and  Son.  By  Charles 

Dickens.  Second  half 20 

108  Cricket  on  the  Hearth,  The. 

By  Charles  Dickens 10 

108  Doctor  Marigold.  By  Charles 

Dickens 10 

109  Little  Loo.  By  W.  Clark  Russell  20 

110  Under  the  Red  Flag.  By  Miss 

M.  E.  Braddon 10 

111  Little  School-master  Mark,  The. 

By  J.  H.  Shorthouse 10 

112  Waters  of  Marah,  The.  By  John 

Hill 20 

113  Mrs.  Carr’s  Companion.  By  M. 

G.  Wightwick 10 

114  Some  of  Our  Girls.  By  Mrs.  C. 

J.  Eiloart 20 

115  Diamond  Cut  Diamond.  By  T. 

Adolphus  Trollope 10 

116  Moths.  By  “Ouida” 20 


117  Tale  of  the  Shore  and  Ocean,  A. 

By  William  H.  G.  Kingston..  20 

118  Loys,  Lord  Berresford,  and 

Eric  Dering.,  The  Duchess  ” 10 

119  Monica,  and  A Rose  Distill’d. 


By  “The  Duchess” 10 

120  Tom  Brown’s  School  Days  at 

Rugby.  By  Thomas  Hughes.  20 

121  Maid  of  Athens.  By  Justin 

McCarth}’' 20 

122  lone  Stewart.  By  Mrs.  E.  Lynn 

Lintbn 20 

123  Sweet  is  True  Love.  By  “ The 

Duchess  ” . 10 

124  Three  Feathers.  By  Wm.  Black  20 

125  Monarch  of  Mincing  Lane,  The. 

By  William  Black 20 

126  Kilmeny.  By  William  Black..  20 

127  Adrian  Bright.  By  Mrs.  Caddy  20 

128  Afternoon,  and  Other  Sketches. 

By  “Ouida” 10 


129  Rossmoyne.  By  “ The  Duchess  ” 10 

130  Last  of  the  Barons,  The,  By  Sir 

E.  Bulwer  Lytton.  1st  half..  20 

130  Last  of  the  Barons,  The.  By  Sir 

E.  Bulwer  Lytton.  2d  half..  20 

131  Our  Mutual  Friend.  By  Charles 


Dicl#0hs.  First  half 20 

131  Our  Mutual  Friend.  By  Charles 

Dickens.  Second  half 20 

132  Master  Humphrey’s  Clock.  By 

Charles  Dickens 10 

133  Peter  the  Whaler.  By  William 

H.  G.  Kingston 10 

134  Witching  Hour,  The,  and  Other 

Stories.  By  “The  Duchess  ”.  10 

135  Great  Heiress,  A : A Fortune  in 

Seven  Checks.  By  R.  E.  Fran- 
cillon 10 

136  “That  Last  Rehearsal,”  and 

Other  Stories.  By  “The 

Duchess” 10 


137  Uncle  Jack.  By  Walter  Besant  10 

138  Green  Pastures  and  Piccadilly. 

By  Wm.  Black 20 

139  Romantic  Adventures  of  a Milk- 

maid, The.  By  Thomas  Hardy  10 

140  Glorious  Fortune,  A.  By  Wal- 

ter Besant. 10 

141  She  Loved  Hi-ml  By  Annie 

Thomas 10 

142  Jenifer.  By  Annie  Thomas 20 

143  One  False,  Both  Fair.  By  John 

B.  Harwood 20 

144  Promises  of  Marriage.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau 10 


145  “ Storm-Beaten God  and  The 

Man.  By  Robert  Buchanan.  20 

146  Love  Finds  the  Way,  and  Other 

Stories.  By  Walter  Besant 


and  James  Rice 10 

147  Rachel  Ray.  By  Anthony  Troll- 

ope  20 

148  Thorus  and  Orange-Blossoms. 

By  Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  au- 
thor of  “Dora  Thorne” 10 

149  Captain’s  Daughter,  The.  From 

the  Russian  of  Pushkin 10 

150  For  Himself  Alone.  By  T.  W. 

Speight 10 

151  Ducie  Diamonds,  The.  By  C. 

Blatherwick 10 

152  Uncommercial  Traveler,  The. 

By  Charles  Dickens 20 

153  Golden  Calf,  The.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

154  Annan  Water.  By  Robert  Buch- 

anan  20 

155  Lady  Muriel’s  Secret.  By  Jean 

Middlemas 20 

156  “For  a Dream’s  Sake.”  By  Mrs. 

Herbert  Martin 20 

157  Milly’sHero.  By  F.  W.  Robinson  20 

158  Starling,  The.  By  Norman 

Macleod,  D.D 10 

159  Captain  Norton’s  Diary,  and 

A Moment  of  Madness.  By 
Florence  Marryat 10 

160  Her  Gentle  Deeds.  By  Sarah 

Tvtler 10 

161  Lady  of  Lyons,  The.  Founded 

on  the  Play  of  that  title  by 
Lord  Lytton . . : 10 

162  Eugene  Aram.  By  Sir  E.  Bulwer 

Lytton 20 

163  Winifred  Power.  By  Joyce  Dar- 

rell   20 

164  Leila ; or,  The  Siege  of  Grenada. 

By  I3ulwer  Lytton 10 

165  History  of  Henry  Esmond,  The. 

By  William  M.  Thackeray...  20 

166  Moonshine  and  Marguerites. 

By  “The  Duchess” 10 

167  Heart  and  Science.  By  Wilkie 

Collins 20 

168  No  Thoroughfare.  By  Dickens 

and  Collins 10 

169  Haunted  Man,  The.  By  Charles 

Dickens 10 

170  A Great  Treason.  By  Mary 

Hoppus.  First  half 20 


I rilE  SEASIDE  LIBllAKY— Pocket  Edition. 


170  A Great  Treason.  By  Mary 

Hoppus.  Second  half 20 

171  Fortune’s  Wheel.  By  “The 

Duchess” 10 

172  “ Golden  Girls.”  By  Alan  Muir  20 

178  Foreigners,  The.  By  Eleanor  C. 

Price 20 

174  Under  a Ban.  By  Mrs.  Lodge.  20 

175  Love’s  Random  Shot.  By  Wilkie 

Collins 10 

176  An  April  Day.  By  Philippa  Prit- 

tie  Jephson 10 

377  Salem  Chapel.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant  20 

378  More  Leaves  from  the  Journal 

of  a Life  in  the  Highlands. 

By  Queen  Victoria 10 

179  Little  Make-Believe.  By  B.  L. 

Farjeon 10 

180  Round  the  Galley  Fire.  By  W’. 

Clark  Russell 10 

181  New  Abelard,  The.  By  Robert 

Buchanan 10 

182  Millionaire,  The 20 

183  Old  Contrairy,  and  Other  Sto- 

ries. By  Florence  Marryat..  30 

184  Thirlby  Hall.  By  W.  E.  Norris  20 

185  Dita.  By  Lady  Margaret  Ma- 

jendie 10 

186  Canon’s  Ward,  The.  By  James 

Payn 20 

187  Midnight  Sun,  The.  By  Fredrika 

Bremer 10 

188  Idonea.  By  Anne  Beale 20 

189  Valerie’s  Fate.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  10 

190  Romance  of  a Black  Veil.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
ot  “Dora  Thorne” 10 

191  Harry  Lorrequer.  By  Charles 

Lever 20 

192  At  the  World’s  Mercy.  By  F. 

Warden 10 

193  Rosery  Folk,  The.  By  G.  Man- 

ville  Fenn 10 

194  “So  Near,  and  Yet  So  Far!” 

By  Alison 10 

195  “ Way  of  the  World,  The.”  By 

David  Christie  Murray 20 

196  Hidden  Perils.  Mary  Cecil  Hay  20 

197  For  Her  Dear  Sake.  By  Mary 

Cecil  Hay 20 

198  Husband’s  Story,  A 10 

199  Fisher  Village,  The.  By  Anne 

Beale 10 

•00  An  Old  Man’s  Love.  By  Anthony 
Trollope 10 

201  Monastery,  The.  By  Sir  Walter 

Scott 20 

202  Abbot,  The.  Sequel  to  “ The 

Monastery.”  By  Sir  Walter 
Scott 20 

203  John  Bull  and  His  Island.  By 

MaxO’Ilell 10 

201  Vixen.  By  Miss  M.  E.  Bracldon  20 

205  Minister’s  Wife,  The.  By  Mrs. 

Oliphant 30 

206  Picture,  The,  and  Jack  of  All 

Trades.  By  Cliarles  Rcade. . . 10 


207  Pretty  Miss  Neville.  By  B.  M. 

Croker 20 

206  Ghost  of  Charlotte  Cray,  The, 
and  Other  Stories.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat 10 

209  John  Holdsworth,  Chief  Mate. 

By  W.  Clark  Russell 10 

210  Readiana:  Comments  on  Cur- 

rent Events.  By  Chas.  Reade  10 

211  Octoroon,  The.  By  Miss  M.  E. 

Braddon 10 

212  Charles  O’Malley,  the  Irish 

Dragoon.  By  Charles  Lever. 
First  half 20 

212  Charles  O’Malley,  the  Irish 

Dragoon.  By  Charles  Lever. 
Second  half 20 

213  Terrible  Temptation,  A.  By 

Chas.  Reade 20 

214  Put  Yourself  in  His  Place.  By 

Charles  Reade 20 

215  Not  Like  Other  Girls.  By  Rosa 

Nouchette  Carey 20 

216  Foul  Play.  By  Charles  Reade.  20 

217  Man  She  Cared  For,  The.  By 

F.  W.  Robinson 20 

218  Agnes  Sorel.  By  G.  P.  R.  James  20 

219  Lady  Clare ; or,  The  Master  of 

the  Forges.  From  the  French 
of  Georges  Ohnet 10 

220  Which  Loved  Him  Best?  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 10 

221  Cornin’ Thro’ the  Rye.  By  Helen 

222  Sun-Maid,  The.  By  Miss  Grant  20 

223  Sailor’s  Sweetheart,  A.  By  W. 

Clark  Russell 20 


224  Arundel  Motto,  The.  By  Mary 

Cecil  Hay 

225  Giarbt’s  Robe,  The.  By  F.  Anstey 

226  Friendship.  By  “ Ouida  ” 

227  Nancy.  By  Ehoda  Broughton . 

228  Princess  Napraxine.  “ Ouida  ” 

229  Maid,  Wife,  or  Widow?  By 

Mrs.  Alexander — 

230  Dorothy  Forster.  By  W’'alter 

Besant 

231  Griffith  Gaunt;  or.  Jealousy. 

By  Charles  Reade 

232  Love  and  Money;  or,  A Peril- 

ous Secret.  By  Chas.  Reade. 

233  “ I Say  No;”  or.  The  Love-Let- 

ter Answered.  By  Wilkie  Col- 
lins  

234  Barbara;  or.  Splendid  Misery. 

By  Miss  M.  E.  Braddon. .... 

235  “ It  is  Never  Too  Late  to  Mend.” 

By  Charles  Reade 

236  Which  Shall  It  Be?  By  Mrs. 

Alexander 

237  Repented  at  Leisure.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora  Thorne” 

238  Pascarel.  By  “Ouida” 

230  Signa.  By  “Ouida” 

210  Called  Back.  By  Hugh  Conway 
241  Baby’s  Grandmother,  The.  By 

L.'  B.  Waif  Old W 


B B B ^ B B B BBBBB 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBE ARY— Pocket  Edition. 


8 


• — V- • 

242  Two  Orphans,  The.  By  D’En- 


nery 10 

243  Tom  Burke  of  ‘Ours.”  By 


Charles  Lever.  First  half. . . 20 

243  Tom  Burke  of  ‘‘Ours.”  By 

Charles  Lever.  "Second  half.  20 

244  Great  Mistake,  A.  By  the  author 

of  “Cherry” 20 

245  Miss  Tommy.  By  Miss  Mulock  10 

246  Fatal  Dower,  A.  By  the  Author 

of  “ His  Wedded  Wife  ” 20 

247  Armourer’s  Prentices,  The.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Yonfce 10 

248  House  on  the  Marsh,  The.  By 

F.  Warden 10 

849  “Prince  Charlie’s  Daughter.” 

By  Charlotte  M.  Braeine,  au- 
thor of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 10 

250  Sunshine  and  Roses ; or,  Diana’s 

Discipline.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne  ” 10 

251  Daughter  of  the  Stars,  The,  and 

Other  Tales.  By  Hugh  Con- 
way. author  of  “ Called 
Back  ” 10 

252  Sinless  Secret,  A.  By  “ Rita  ” 10 

253  Amazon,  The.  By  Carl  Vosmaer  10 

254  Wife’s  Secret,  The,  and  Fair  but 


False.  Charlotte  M.  Braeme, 
author  of  “ Dora  Thorne  ”...  10 

255  Mvstery,  The.  By  Mrs.  Henry 

Wood 20 

256  Mr.  Smith : A Part  of  His  Life. 

ByL.  B.  Walford.... 20 

257  Beyond  Recall.  By  Adeline  Ser- 

geant...  10 

258  Cousins.  ByL.  B.  Walford 20 

259  Bride  of  Monte- Cristo,  The.  A 

Sequel  to  “ The  Count  of 
Monte-Cristo.”  By  Alexan- 
der Dumas 10 

260  Proper  Pride.  By  B.  M.  Croker  10 

261  Fair  Maid,  A.  By  F.  W.  Robin- 

son   20 

262  Count  of  Monte-Cristo,  The. 

By  Alexander  Dumas.  Part  I 30 

262  Count  of  Monte-Cristo,  The. 

By  Alexander  Dumas.  Part  H 30 

263  An  Ishraaelite.  By  Miss  M.  H. 

Braddon 20 

264  Pi^douche,  a French  Detective. 

By  Fortune  Du  Boisgobey...  10 

265  Judith  Shakespeare : Her  Love 

Affairs  and  Other  Advent- 
ures. By  William  Black 20 

266  Water-Babies,  The.  A Fairy 

Tale  for  a Land-Baby.  By  the 
Rev.  Charles  Kingsley 10 

267  Laurel  Vane;  or.  The  Girls’ 

Conspiracy.  By  Mrs.  Alex. 

McVeigh  Miller 20 

266  Lady  Gay’s  Pride;  or.  The  Mi- 
ser’s Treasure.  By  Mrs.  Alex. 
McVeigh  Miller 20 

269  Lancaster’s  Choice.  By  Mrs. 

Alex.  McVeigh  Miller... 20 

270  Wandering  Jew,  The.  By  Eu- 

gene Sue.  Part  I 80 


270  Wandering  Jew,  The.  By  Eu- 

gene Sue.  Part  H 30 

271  Mysteries  of  Paris,  The.  By  Eu- 

gene Sue.  Parti 30 

271  Mysteries  of  Paris,  The.  By  Eu- 

gene Sue.  Part  II 30 

272  Little  Savage,  The.  By  Captain 

Marryat 10 

273  Love  and  Mirage;  or.  The  Wait- 

ing on  an  Island.  By  M. 
Betham-Ed  wards. 10 

274  Alice,  Grand  Duchess  of  Hesse, 

Princess  of  Great  Britain  and 
Ireland.  Biographical  Sketch 
and  Letters 10 

275  Three  Brides,  The.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Yonge 10 

276  Tinder  the  Lilies  and  Roses. 

By  Florence  Marryat  (Mrs. 
Francis  Lean) 10 


277  Surgeon’s  Daughters,  The,  by 

Mrs.  Henry  Wood.  A Man  of 
His  Word,  by  W.  E.  Norris...  10 

278  For  Life  and  Love.  By  Alison.  10 

279  Little  Goldie : A Story  of  Wom- 

an’s Love.  By  Mrs.  Sumner 


Hayden 20 

280  Omnia  Vanitas.  A Tale  of  So- 

ciety. By  Mrs.  Forrester 10 

281  Squire’s  Legacy,  The.  By  Mary 

Cecil  Hay 20 

282  Donal  Grant.  By  George  Mac- 

Donald   20 

283  Sin  of  a Lifetime,  The.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 10 

284  Doris.  By  “ The  Duchess  ” 10 

285  Gambler’s  Wife,  The 20 

286  Deldee ; or,  The  Iron  Hand.  By 

F.  Warden 20 

287  At  War  With  Herself.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 

“Dora  Thorne” 10 

923  At  War  With  Herself.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme.  (Large  type 
edition) 20 

288  From  Gloom  to  Sunlight;  or 

From  Out  the  Gloom.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 

of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 10 

955  From  Gloom  to  Sunlight;  or. 
From  Out  the  Gloom.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme.  (Large 
type  edition) 20 

289  John  Bull’s  Neighbor  in  Her 

True  Light.  By  a “Brutal 
Saxon” 10 

290  Nora’s  Love  Test.  By  Mary 

Cecil  Hay... 20 

291  Love’s  Warfare.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne” 10 

292  Golden  Heart,  A.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne” 10 

293  Shadow  of  a Sin,  The.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
^,^,“Dora  Thorne” 10 


6 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Editioit. 


948  Shadow  of  a Sin,  1’he.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme.  (Large  type 
edition) 20 

294  Hilda;  or,  The  False  Vow.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 

of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 10 

928  Hilda;  or,  The  False  Vow.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme.  (Large 
type  edition) 20 

295  Woman’s  War,  A.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Tliorne  ” 10 

952  Woman’s  War,  A.  By  C^harlotte 

M.  Braeme.  (Large  type  edi- 
tion)  20 

296  Rose  in  Thorns,  A.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora  Thorne” 10 

297  Hilary’s  Folly;  or,  Her  Mar- 

riage Vow.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne” 10 

953  Hilary’s  Folly;  or.  Her  Mar- 

riage Vow.'  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme.  (Large  type  edition)  20 

298  Mitchelhurst  Place.  By  Marga- 

ret Veley 10 

299  Fatal  Lilies,  The.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne”  10 

300  A Gilded  Sin,  and  A Bridge  of 

Love.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne  ” 10 

301  Dark  Days.  By  Hugh  Conway  10 

302  Blatchford  Bequest,  The.  By 

Hugh  Conway , author  of 
“Called  Back” 10 

803  Ingledew  House.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne” 10 

804  In  Cupid’s  Net.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 

Thorne  ” 10 

305  Dead  Heart,  A.  By  Charlotte 
M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 

Thorne  ” 10 

806  Golden  Dawn,  A.  By  Charlotte 
M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 

Thorne” 10 

107  Two  Kisses.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 

Thorne” 10 

308  Beyond  Pardon.  C.  M.  Braeme  20 

809  Pathfinder,  The.  By  J.  Feni- 

more  Cooper 20 

310  Prairie,  The.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper 20 

811  Two  Years  Before  the  Mast. 

By  K.  H.  Dana,  Jr 20 

812  Week  in  Killarriey,  A.  By  “The 

Duch(iss” 10 

813  Lover’s  Creed,  The.  By  Mrs. 

CaslnO-Hoey 20 

W4  Peril.  By  Jessie  Fothergill  ...  20 
615  Mistleto(i  Bough,  The.  Edited 
by  Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 20 


-w 


316  Sworn  to  Silence;  or.  Aline 

Rodney’s  Secret.  By  Mrs. 
Alex.  McVeigh  Miller 20 

317  By  Mead  and  Stream.  By  Chas. 

Gibbon 90 

318  Pioneers,  The ; or.  The  Sources 

of  the  Susquehanna.  By  J. 
Fenimore  Cooper 20 

319  Face  to  Face : A Fact  in  Seven 

Fables.  By  R.  E.  Francillon.  10 

320  Bit  of  Human  Nature,  A.  By 

David  Christie  Murray 10 

321  Prodigals,  The:  And  Their  In- 

heritance. By  Mrs.  Oliphant.  10 

322  Woman’s  Love-Story,  A.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 10 

323  Willful  Maid,  A.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne” 20 

324  In  Luck  at  Last.  By  Walter 

Besant 10 

325  Portent,  The.  By  George  Mac- 

donald  10 

326  Phantastes.  A Faerie  Romance 

for  Men  and  Women,  By 
George  Macdonald 10 

327  Raymond’s  Atonement.  (From 

the  German  of  E.  Werner.) 

By  Christina  Tyrrell 20 

328  Babiole,  the  Pretty  Milliner. 

(Translated  from  the  French 
of  Fortune  Du  Boisgobey.) 
First  half 20 

328  Babiole,  the  Pretty  Milliner. 

(Translated  from  the  French 
of  Fortune  Du  Boisgobey.) 
Second  half 20 

329  Polish  Jew,  The.  (Translated 

from  the  French  by  Caroline 
A.  Merighi.)  By  Erckmann- 
Chatrian 10 

330  May  Blossom ; or,  Between  Two 

Loves.  By  Margaret  Lee 20 

331  Gerald.  By  Eleanor  C.  Price..  20 

332  Judith  Wynne.  By  author  of 

“ Lady  Lovelace  ” 20 

333  Frank  Fairlegh;  or.  Scenes 

From  the  Life  of  a Private 
Pupil.  By  Frank  E.  Smedley  20 

334  Marriage  of  Convenience,  A. 

By  Harriett  Jay 10 

335  White  Witch,  The.  A Novel. . . 20 

336  Philistia.  By  Cecil  Power 20 

337  Memoirs  and  Resolutions  of 

Adam  Graeme  of  Mossgray, 
including  some  Chronicles  of 
the  Borough  of  Fendie.  By 
Mrs,  Oliphant 20 

338  Family  Difficulty,  The.  By  Sa- 

rah Doudney 10 

339  Mrs.  Vereker’s  Courier  Maid. 

By  Mrs.  Alexander 10 

340  Under  Which  King?  By  Comp- 

ton Reade 20 

341  Madolin  Rivers;  or.  The  Little 

Beauty  of  Red  Oak  Seminary. 

By  Laura  Jean  Libbey 20 

312  Baby,  The.  By  “ The  Duchess  ” 1# 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRAEY — Pocket  Edition. 


7 


348  Talk  of  the  Town,  The.  By 
yames  Payn 20 

344  “Wearing:  of  the  Green,  The.” 

By  Basil 20 

345  M^dam.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant 20 

346  Tuiibledown  Farm.  By  Alan 

]S^uir 10 

347  As  A.von  Flows.  By  Henry  Scott 

"V^nce 20 

348  Frohi  Post  to  Finish.  A Racing 

Romance.  By  Hawley  Smart  20 

349  Two  Admirals,  The.  A Tale  of 


the  Sea.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper 20 

350  Diana  of  the  Crossways.  By 

George  Meredith 10 

351  House  on  the  Moor,  The.  By 

Mrs.  Oliphant 20 

352  At  Any  Cost.  By  Edw.  Garrett  10 

353  Black  Dwarf,  The.  By  Sir 

Walter  Scott 20 

354  Lottery  of  Life,  The.  A Story 

of  New  York  Twenty  Years 
Ago.  By  John  Brougham. . . 20 

355  That  Terrible  Man.  By  W.  E. 

Norris 10 

356  Good  Hater,  A.  By  Frederick 

Boyle 20 

357  John.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant 20 

358  Within  the  Clasp.  By  J.  Ber- 

wick Harwood 20 

359  Water-Witch,  The.  By  J.  Feni- 

more Cooper 20 

360  Ropes  of  Sand.  By  R.  E.  Francil- 

lon 20 

361  Red  Rover,  The.  A Tale  of  the 

Sea.  By  J.  Fenimore  Cooper  20 

362  Bride  of  Lammermoor,  The. 

By  Sir  Walter  Scott 20 

363  Surgeon’s  Daughter,  The.  By 

Sir  Walter  Scott — 10 

364  Castle  Dangerous.  By  Sir  Wal- 

ter Scott 10 

365  George  Christy;  or.  The  Fort- 

unes of  & Minstrel.  By  Tony 

Pastor W 

866  Mysterious  Hunter,  The;  or, 

, The  Man  of  Death.  By  Capt. 

L.  C.  Carleton 20 


367  Tie  and  Trick.  By  Hawley  Smart  20 
868  Southern  Star,  The ; or.  The  Dia- 
mond Land.  By  Jules  Verne  20 

369  Miss  Bretherton.  By  Mrs.  Hum- 

phry Ward 10 

370  Lucy  Crofton.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant  10 

371  Margaret  Maitland.  By  Mrs. 

Oliphant 20 

372  Phyllis’  Probation.  By  the  au- 

thor of  “ His  Wedded  Wife  ” . 10 

373  Wing-and-Wing.  By  J.  Feni- 

more Cooper 20 

874  Dead  Man’s  Secret,  The ; or.  The 
Adventures  of  a Medical  Stu- 
dent. By  Dr.  Jupiter  Paeon. . 20 
375  Ride  to  Khiva,  A.  By  Captain 
Fred  Burnaby,  of  the  Royal 
Horse  Guards 20 


376  Crime  of  Christmas  Day,  The. 

By  the  author  of  “ My  Ducats 
and  My  Daughter  ” 10 

377  Magdalen  Hepburn : A Story  of 

the  Scottish  Reformation.  By 
Mrs.  Oliphant 20 

378  Homeward  Bound;  or,  The 

Chase.  By  J.  F.  Cooper 20 

379  Home  as  Found.  (Sequel  to 

“ Homeward  Bound.”)  ByJ. 
Fenimore  Cooper 20 

380  Wyandotte;  or.  The  Hutted 

Knoll.  ByJ.  Fenimore  Cooper  20 

381  Red  Cardinal,  The.  By  Frances 

Elliot 10 

382  Three  Sisters;  or.  Sketches  of 

a Highly  Original  Family. 

By  Elsa  D’Esterre-Keeling...  10 

383  Introduced  to  Society.  By  Ham- 

ilton Aid6  10 

384  On  Horseback  Through  Asia 

Minor.  By  Captain  Fred  Bur- 
naby  20 

385  Headsman,  The;  or,  The  Ab- 

baye  des  Vignerons.  By  J. 
Fenimore  Cooper 20 

386  Led  Astray;  or,  “La  Petite 

Comtesse.”  Octave  Feuillet.  10 

387  Secret  of  the  Cliffs,  The.  By 

Charlotte  French 20 

388  Addie’s  Husband ; or.  Through 

Clouds  to  Sunshine.  By  the 
author  of  “ Love  or  Lands?”.  10 

389  Ichabod.  A Portrait.  By  Bertha 

Thomas 10 

390  Mildred  Trevanion.  By  “The 

Duchess  ” 10 

391  Heart  of  Mid-Lothian,  The.  By 

Sir  Walter  Scott 20 

392  Peveril  of  the  Peak.  By  Sir 

Walter  Scott 20 

393  Pirate,  The.  By  Sir  Walter  Scott  20 

394  Bravo,  The.  By  J.  Fenimore 

Cooper 20 

395  Archipelago  on  Fire,  The.  By 

Jules  Verne 10 

396  Robert  Ord’s  Atonement.  By 

Rosa  Nouchette  Carey 20 

897  Lionel  Lincoln ; or.  The  Leaguer 
of  Boston.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper 20 

398  Matt:  A Tale  of  a Caravan. 

By  Robert  Buchanan 10 

399  Miss  Brown.  By  Vernon  Lee. . 20 

400  Wept  of  Wish-Ton-Wish,  The. 

ByJ.  Fenimore  Cooper 20 

401  Waverley.  By  Sir  Walter  Scott  20 

402  Lilliesleaf ; or.  Passages  in  the 

Life  of  Mrs.  Margaret  Mait- 
land of  Sunnyside.  By  Mrs. 
Oliphant 20 

403  An  English  Squire.  By  C.  R. 

Coleridge :...  20 

404  In  Durance  Vile,  and  Other 

Stories.  By  “ The  Duchess  ” 10 

405  My  Friends  and  I.  Edited  by 

Julian  Sturgis 10 

406  Merchant’s  Clerk,  The.  By  Sam- 

uel Warren 19 


8 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Edition. 


407  Tylney  Hall.  By  Thomas  Hood  20 

408  Lester’s  Secret.  By  Mary  Cecil 

Hay 20 

409  Roy’s  Wife.  By  G.  J.  Whyte- 

Melville 20 

410  Old  Lady  Mary.  By  Mrs.  Oli- 

phant 10 

411  Bitter  Atonement,  A.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

412  Some  One  Else.  By  B.  M.  Croker  20 

413  Afloat  and  Ashore.  By  J.  Fen- 

imore  Cooper 20 

414  Miles  Wallingford.  (Sequel  to 

“ Afloat  and  Ashore.”)  By  J. 
Fenimore  Cooper 20 

415  Ways  of  the  Hour,  The.  By  J. 

Fenimore  Cooper 20 

416  Jack  Tier ; or,  The  Florida  Reef. 

By  J.  Fenimore  Cooper 20 

417  Fair  Maid  of  Perth,  The;  or, 

St.  Valentine’s  Day.  By  Sir 
Walter  Scott 20 

418  St.  Ronan’s  Well.  By  Sir  Walter 

Scott 20 

419  Chainbearer,  The;  or,  The  Lit- 

tlepage  Manuscripts.  By  J. 
Fenimore  Cooper 20 

420  Satanstoe;  or,  The  Littlepage 

Manuscripts.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper 20 

421  Redskins,  The;  or,  Indian  and 

Injin.  Being  the  conclusion 
of  the  Littlepage  Manuscripts. 

By  J.  Fenimore  Cooper 20 

422  Precaution.  By  J.  Fenimore 

Cooper 20 

423  Sea  Lions,  The;  or.  The  Lost 

Sealers.  By  J.  F.  Cooper — 20 

424  Mercedes  of  Castile;  or,  Tne 

Voyage  to  Cathay.  By  J.  Fen- 
imore Cooper 20 

425  Oak-Openings,  The;  or.  The 

Bee-Hunter.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper 20 

426  Venus’s  Doves.  By  Ida  Ash- 

worth Taylor 20 

427  Remarkable  History  of  Sir 

Thomas  Upmore,  Bart.,  M.P., 
The.  Formerly  known  as 
“ Tommy  Upmore.”  By  R. 

D.  Blackmore 20 

428  Z6ro:  A Story  of  Monte-Carlo. 

By  Mrs.  Campbell-Praed 10 

429  Boulderstone ; or,  New  Men  and 


Old  Populations.  By  W.  Sime^lO 


430  Bitter  Reckoning,  A.  By  the  au- 

thor of  ” By  (jrooked  Paths  ” 10 

431  Monikiris,  The.  By  J.  Fenimore 

• (’ooper 20 

432  Witch’s  Head,  The.  By  H. 

Rider  Haggard 20 

433  My  Sister  Kat(\  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braem(%  author  of  ” Dora 
'I'horrm  ” 10 

434  Wyllard’s  Weird.  By  Miss  M.  E. 

Braddon 20 

435  Klvtia : A Story  of  Heidelberg 

Castle.  By  George  Taylor. ..  20 


Stella.  By  Fanny  Lewald.  ...  20 
Life  and  Adventures  of  Martin 
Chuzzlewit.  By  Charles  Dick- 
ens. First  half 20 

Life  and  Adventures  of  Fartin 
Chuzzlewit.  By  Charles  Dick- 
ens. Second  half 20 

Found  Out.  By  Helen  B. 

Mathers 10 

Great  Expectations.  By  Charles 

Dickens 20 

Mrs.  Lirriper’s  Lodgings.  By 

Charles  Dickens 10 

Sea  Change,  A.  By  Flora  L. 

Shaw 20 

Ranthorpe.  By  George  Henry 

Lewes 20 

Bachelor  of  the  Albany,  The. . . 10 
Heart  of  Jane  Warner,  The.  By 

Florence  Marryat 20 

Shadow  of  a Crime,  The.  By 

Hall  Caine 20 

Dame  Durden.  By  “Rita”...  20 
American  Notes.  .By  Charles 

Dickens 20 

Pictures  From  Italy,  and  The 
Mudfog  Papers,  &c.  By  Chas. 

Dickens 20 

Peeress  and  Player.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat 20 

Godfrey  Helstone.  By  Georgi- 

ana  M.  Craik 20 

Market  Harborough,  and  Inside 
the  Bar.  G.  J.  Whyte-Melville  20 
In  the  West  Countrie.  By  May 

Crommelin 20 

Lottery  Ticket,  The.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey  20 

Mystery  of  Edwin  Drood,  The. 

By  Chas.  Dickens 20 

Lazarus  in  London.  By  F.  W. 

Robinson 20 

Sketches  by  Boz.  Illustrative 
of  Every-day  Life  and  Every- 
day People.  By  Charles  Dick- 
ens*  20 

Russians  at  the  Gates  of  Herat, 
The.  By  Charles  Marvin.  ...  10 
Week  of  Passion,  A;  or.  The 
Dilemma  of  Mr.  George  Bar- 
ton the  Younger.  By  Edward 

Jenkins 20 

Woman’s  Temptation,  A.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme.  (Large 

type  edition) 20 

Woman’s  Temptation,  A.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 

of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 10 

Under  a Shadow.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 

“Dora  Thorne” 20 

His  Wedded  Wife.  By  author 

of  “ A Fatal  Dower  ” 20 

Alice’s  Adventures  in  Wonder- 
land. By  Lewis  Carroll.  With 
forty  - two  illustrations  by 

John  Tenniel 20 

Redgauntlet.  By  Sir  Walter 
Scott 20 


436 

437 

437 

438 

439 

440 

441 

442 

443 

444 

445 

446 

447 

448 

449 

450 

451 

452 

453 

454 

455 

456 

457 

458 

459 

951 

460 

461 

462 

463 


THE  SEASroE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Edition, 


$ 


464  Newcomes,  The.  By  William 
Makepeace  Thackeray.  Part 

464  Newcomes,  The.  By  William 

Makepeace  Thackeray.  Part 
II 20 

465  Earl’s  Atonement,  The.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

466  Between  Two  Loves.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora  Thorne” 20 

467  Struggle  for  a Ring,  A.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

468  Fortunes,  Good  and  Bad,  of  a 

Sewing-Girl,  The.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Stanley 10 

469  Lady  Darner’s  Secret;  or,  A 

Guiding  Star.  By  Charlotte 
M.  Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne” 20 

470  Evelyn’s  Folly.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne  ” 20 

471  Thrown  on  the  World.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora  Thorne” 20 

472  Wise  Women  of  Inverness, 

The.  ByWm. Black 10 

473  Lost  Son,  A.  By  Mary  Linskill.  10 

474  Serapis.  By  George  Ebers 20 

475  Prima  Donna’s  Husband,  The.  20 

By  F.  Du  Boisgobey 

476  Between  Two  Sins;  or,  Married 

in  Haste.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne  ” 10 

477  Affinities.  A Romance  of  To- 

day. By  Mrs.  Campbell-Praed  10 

478  Diavola;  or,  Nobody’s  Daugh- 

ter. By  Miss  M.  E.  Braddon.' 
Part  1 20 

478  Diavola;  or.  Nobody’s  Daugh- 

ter. By  Miss  M.  E.  Braddon. 
Partll 20 

479  Louisa.  By  Katharine  S.  Mac- 

quoid 20 

480  Married  in  Haste.  Edited  by 

Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 20 

481  House  That  Jack  Built,  The. 

By  Alison 10 

482  Vagrant  Wife,  A.  By  F.  Warden  20 

483  Betwixt  My  Love  and  Me.  By 

the  author  of  “A  Golden  Bar  ” 10 

484  Although  He  Was  a Lord,  and 

Other  Tales.  Mrs.  Forrester.  10 

485  Tinted  Vapours.  By  J.Maclaren 

Cobban 10 

486  Dick’s  Sweetheart.  By  “The 

Duchess  ” 20 

487  Put  to  the  Test.  Edited  by 

Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 20 

488  Joshua  Haggard’s  Daughter. 

By  Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 20 

480  Rupert  Godwin.  By  Miss  M.  E. 

Braddon 20 

490  Second  Life,  A.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 
ander  20 


491  Society  in  London.  By  a For- 

eign Resident 10 

492  Mignon ; or.  Booties’  Baby.  By 

J.  S.  Winter.  Illustrated 10 

493  Colonel  Enderby’s  Wife.  By 

Lucas  Malet 20 

494  Maiden  All  Forlorn,  A,  and  Bar- 

bara. By  “ The  Duchess  ”...  10 

495  Mount  Royal.  By  Miss  M.  E. 

Braddon 20 

496  OniyaWoman.  Edited  by  Miss 

M.  E.  Braddon 20 

497  Lady’s  Mile,  The.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 30 

498  Only  a Clod.  By  Mis®  M.  E. 

Braddon 30 

499  Cloven  Foot,  The.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 


500  Adrian  Vidal.  By  W.  E.  Norris 

501  Mr.  Butler’s  Ward.  By  F.  Mabel 

Robinson 

502  Carriston’s  Gift.  By  Hugh 

Conway,  author  of  “Called 
Back” 10 

503  Tinted  Venus,  The.  By  F.  Anstey  10 

504  Curly:  An  fetor’s  Story.  By 

John  Coleman.  Illustrated.  10 

505  Society  of  London,  The.  By 

Count  Paul  Vasili 10 

506  Lady  Lovelace.  By  the  author 

of  “Judith  Wynne” 20 

507  Chronicles  of  the  Canongate, 

and  Other  Stories.  By  Sir 
Walter  Scott 10 

508  Unholy  Wish,  The.  By  Mrs. 

Henry  Wood 10 

509  Nell  Haffenden.  By  Tighe  Hop- 

kins  20 

510  Mad  Love,  A.  By  the  author  of 

“ Lover  and  Lord  ” 10 

511  Strange  World,  A.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

512  Waters  of  Hercules,  The 20 

513  Helen  Whitney’s  Wedding,  and 

Other  Tales.  By  Mrs.  Henry 
Wood 10 

514  Mystery  of  Jessy  Page,  The, 

and  Other  Tales.  By  Mrs. 
Henry  Wood 10 

515  Sir  Jasper’s  Tenant.  By  Miss 

M.  E.  Braddon 20 

516  Put  Asunder;  or.  Lady  Castle- 

maine’s  Divorce.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora  Thorne” 20 

517  Passive  Crime,  A,  and  Other 

Stories.  By  “ The  Duchess  ” 10 

518  Hidden  Sin,  The.  A Novel 20 

519  James  Gordon’s  Wife,  A Novel  30 

520  She's  All  the  World  to  Me.  By 

Hall  Caine \ 10 

521  Entangled.  By  E.  Fairfax 

Byrrne. 30 

522  Zig-Zag,  the  Clown;  or.  The 

Steel  Gauntlets.  By  F.  Du 
Boisgobey 20 

523  Consequences  of  a Duel,  The. 

By  F.  Du  Boisgobey. 39 


8 g 8 


10 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRAKY — Pocket  Edition. 


524  Strangers  and  Pilgrims.  By 


Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 20 

625  Paul  Vargas,  and  Other  Stories. 

By  Hugh  Conway,  author  of 

“Called  Back” 10 

MG  Madame  De  Presnel.  By  E. 

Frances  Poynter 20 

627  Days  of  My  Life.  The.  By  Mrs. 

Oliphant 20 

628  At  His  Galies.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant  20 

629  Doctor’s  Wife,  The.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

630  Pair  of  Blue  Eyes,  A.  By  Thom- 

as Hardy 20 


631  Prime  Minister,  The.  By  An- 
thony Trollope.  First  Half..  20 
631  Prime  Minister,  The.  By  An- 
thony Trollope.  Second  Half  20 

532  Arden  Court.  Barbara  Graham  20 

533  Hazel  Kirke.  By  Marie  Walsh  20 

534  Jack.  By  Alphonse  Daudet — 20 

635  Henrietta’s  Wish;  or.  Domi- 

neering. By  Charlotte  M. 
Yonge 10 

636  Dissolving  Views.  By  Mrs.  An- 

drew Lang 10 

637  Piccadilly.  Laurence  Oliphant  10 

638  Fair  Country  Maid,  A.  By  E. 

Fairfax  Byrrne 20 

639  Silvermead.  By  Jean  Middle- 

mas 20 

640  At  a High  Price.  By  E.  Werner  20 

641  “ As  it  Fell  Upon  a Day,”  by 

“The  Duchess,”  and  Uncle 
Jack,  by  Walter  Besant 10 

642  Fenton’s  Quest.  By  Miss  M.  E. 

Braddon 20 

643  Family  Affair,  A.  By  Hugh 

Conway,  author  of  “ Called 
Back” 20 

644  Cut  by  the  County;  or,  Grace 

Darnel.  By  Miss  M.  E.  Brad- 
don  10 

645  Vida’s  Story.  By  author  of 

“ Guilty  Without  Crime  ” 10 

646  Mrs.  Keith’s  Crime 10 

547  Coquette’s  Conquest,  A.  By 

Basil 20 

648  Fatal  Marriage,  A,  and  The 

Shadow  in  the  Corner.  By 
Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 10 

649  Dudley  Carleon ; or,  The  Broth- 

er’s Secret,  and  George  Caul- 
field’s Journey.  ByMissM.  E. 

Braddon 10 

6.50  Struck  Down.  By  Hawley  Smart  10 
551  Barbara  Heathcote’s  Trial.  By 

Rosa  N.  Carey.  2 parts,  each  20 

652  Ho8tag('8  to  Fortune.  By  Miss 

M.  E.  Braddon 20 

653  Birds  of  Prey.  By  Miss  M.  E. 

Braddon 20 

654  Charlotte’s  Inheritance.  (ASe- 

(pnd  to  “ Birds  of  Prey.”)  By 
Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 20 

655  Cara  Roma.  By  Miss  Grant 20 

65(1  Prince  of  Darkness,  A.  By  F. 

Warden 20 1 


557  To  the  Bitter  End.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

S68  Poverty  Corner.  By  G.  Mkinville 
Fenn 20 

559  Taken  at  the  Flood.  By  Miss 

M.  E.  Braddon 20 

560  Asphodel.  By  Miss  M.  E.  Brad- 

don  20 

561  Just  As  I Am ; or,  A Living  Lie. 

By  Miss  M.  E Braddon 20 

562  Lewis  Arundel;  or.  The  Rail- 

road of  Life.  By  Frank  E. 
Smedley 20 

563  Two  Sides  of  the  Shield,  The. 

By  Charlotte  M.  Yonge 20 

564  At  Bay.  By  Mrs.  Alexander. ..  10 

565  No  Medium.  By  Annie  Thomas  10 

566  Royal  Highlanders,  The;  or. 

The  Black  Watch  in  Egypt. 

By  James  Grant 20 

567  Dead  Men’s  Shoes.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

568  Perpetual  Curate,  The.  By  Mrs. 

Oliphant 20 

569  Harry  Muir.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant  20 

570  John  Marchm'ont’s  Legacy.  By 

Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 20 

571  Paul  Carew’s  Story.  By  Alice 

Corny  ns  Carr 10 

572  Healey.  By  Jessie  Fothergill.  20 

573  Love’s  Harvest.  B.  L.  Far  jeon  20 

574  Nabob,  The:  A Story  of  Paris- 

ian Life  and  Manners.  By  Al- 
phonse Daudet 20 

575  Finger  of  Fate,  The.  By  Cap- 

tain Mayne  Reid 20 

576  Her  Martyrdom.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne” 20 

577  In  Peril  and  Privation.  By 

James  Payn 10 

578  Mathias  Sandorf.  By  Jules 

Verne.  (Illustrated.)  Parti.  10 
578  Mathias  Sandorf.  By  Jules 
Verne.  (Illustrated.)  Part  II  10 

578  Mathias  Sandorf.  By  Jules 

Verne.  (Illustrated.)  Part  HI  10 

579  Flower  of  Doom,  The,  and 

Other  Stories.  By  M.  Betham- 
Edwards 10 

580  Red  Route,  The.  By  William 

Sime 20 

581  Betrothed,  The.  (I  Promessi 

Sposi,)  Alessandro  Manzoni.  20 

582  Lucia,  Hugh  and  Another.  By 

Mrs.  J.  H.  Needed 20 

583  Victory  Deane.  By  Cecil  Griffith  20 

584  Mixed  Motives 10 

585  Drawn  Game,  A.  By  Basil — 20 

586  “For  Percival.”  By  Margaret 

Veley 20 

587  Parson  o’  Dumford,  The.  By 

G. ‘Manville  Fenn 20 

588  Cherry.  By  the  author  of  “A 

Great  Mistake” 10 

589  Luck  of  the  Darrells,  The.  By 

James  Payn 20 

590  Courting  of  Mary  Smith,  The. 

By  F.  W.  Robinson 20 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBEARY— Pocket  Edition. 


11 


591  Queen  of  Hearts,  The.  By  Wil- 
kie Collins 20 

502  Strangre  Voyage,  A.  By  W. 

Clark  Russell 20 

693  Berna  Boyle.  By  Mrs.  J.  H. 

Riddell 20 

594  Doctor  Jacob.  By  Miss  Betham- 
Ed  wards 20 

695  North  Country  Maid,  A.  By 

Mrs.  H.  Lovett  Cameron 20 

696  My  Ducats  and  My  Daughter. 

By  the  author  of  “ The  Crime 
of  Christmas  Day” 20 

597  Haco  the  Dreamer.  By  William 

Sime 10 

598  Corinna.  By  “Rita” 10 

599  Lancelot  Ward,  M.P.  By  George 

Temple 10 

600  Houp-La.  By  John  Strange 

Winter.  (Illustrated) 10 

601  Slings  and  Arrows,  and  other 

Stories.  By  Hugh  Conway, 
author  of  “ Called  Back  ”...  10 

602  Camiola:  A Girl  With  a Fortune. 

By  Justin  McCarthy 20 

603  Agnes.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant.  First 

Half 20 

603  Agnes.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant.  Sec- 

ond Half 20 

604  Innocent:  A Tale  of  Modern 

Life.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant.  First 
Half 20 

604  Innocent:  A Tale  of  Modern 

Life.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant.  Sec- 
ond Half 20 

605  Ombra.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant 20 

606  Mrs.  Hollyer.  By  Georgiana  M. 

Craik 20 


607  Self-Doomed.  By  B.  L.  Farjeon  10 

608  For  Lilias.  By  Rosa  Nouchette 

Carey.  In  Two  Parts,  each . . 20 

609  Dark  House,  The : A Knot  Un- 


raveled. By  G.  Manville  Fenn  10 

610  Story  of  Dorothy  Grape,  The, 

and  Other  Tales.  By  Mrs. 
Henry  Wood 10 

611  Babylon.  By  Cecil  Power 20 

612  My  Wife’s  Niece.  By  the  author 

of  “Doctor  Edith  Romney  ”.  20 

613  Ghost’s  Touch,  The.  By  Wilkie 

Collins 10 

614  No.  99.  By  Arthur  Griffiths...  10 

615  Mary  Amerley.  By  R.  D.  Black- 

more 20 

616  Sacred  Nugget,  The.  By  B.  L. 

OA 


X*  0*1  JCULl • • • . iW 

617  Like  Dian’s  Kiss.  By  “ Rita  ”.  20 

618  Mistletoe  Bough,  The.  Christ- 

mas, 1885.  Edited  by  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

619  Joy;  or,  The  Light  of  Cold- 

Home  Ford.  By  May  Crom- 
melin. 20 

620  Between  the  Heather  and  the 

Northern  Sea.  By  M.  Linskill  20 

621  Warden,  The.  By  Aiithony 

Trollope 10 

622  Harry  Heathcote  of  Gangoil.  By 

Anthony  Trollope 10 


623  My  Lady’s  Money.  By  Wilkie 

Collins 10 

624  Primus  in  Indis.  By  M.  J.  Col- 

quhoun 10 

625  Erema;  or.  My  Father’s  Sin. 

By  R.  D.  Blackmore 20 

626  Fair  Mystery,  A.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne  ” 20 

627  White  Heather.  By  Wm.  Black  ^ 

628  Wedded  Hands.  By  the  author 

of  “ My  Lady’s  Folly  ” 20 

629  Cripps,  the  Carrier.  By  R.  D. 

Blackmore 20 

630  Cradock  Nowell.  By  R.  D. 

Blackmore.  First  half 20 

630  Cradock  Nowell.  By  R.  D. 

Blackmore.  Second  half 20 

631  Christowell.  By  R.  D.  Blackmore  20 

632  Clara  Vaughan.  ByR.D.  Black- 

more 20 

633  Maid  of  Sker,  The.  By  R.  D. 

Blackmore.  1st  half 20 

633  Maid  of  Sker,  The.  By  R.  D. 

Blackmore.  2d  half 20 

634  Unforeseen,  The.  By  Alice 

O’Hanlon 20 

635  Murder  or  Manslaughter?  By 

Helen  B.  Mathers 10 

636  Alice  Lorraine.  By  R.  D.  Black- 

more.  1st  half 20 

636  Alice  liOrraine.  By  R.  D.  Black- 

more.  2d  half 20 

637  What’s  His  Offence?  By  author 

of  “ The  Two  Miss  Flemings  ” 20 

638  In  Quarters  with  the  25th  (The 

Black  Horse)  Dragoons.  By 


J.  S.  Winter 10 

639  Othmar.  “Ouida.”  2 parts, each 20 

640  Nuttie’s  Father.  By  Charlotte 

^ M.  Yonge .'...20 

641  Rabbi’s  Spell,  The.  By  Stuart 

C.  Cumberland 10 

642  Britta.  By  George  Temple 10 

643  Sketch-book  of  Geoffrey  Cray- 

on, Gent,  The.  By  Washing- 
ton Irving 20 

644  Girton  Girl,  A.  By  Mrs.  Annie 

Edwards 20 

645  Mrs.  Smith  of  Longmains.  By 

Rhoda  Broughton 10 

646  Master  of  the  Mine,  The.  By 

Robert  Buchanan 20 

647  Goblin  Gold.  By  May  Crom- 

melin 10 

648  Angel  of  the  Bells,  The.  By  F. 

Du  Boisgobey , , 20 

649  Cradle  and  Spade.  By  William 

Sime 20 


650  Alice;  or,  The  Mysteries.  (A  Se- 
quel to  “ Ernest  Maltravers.”) 


By  Sir  E.  Bulwer  Lytton 20 

651  “ Self  or  Bearer.”  By  Walter 

Besant 10 

652  Lady  With  the  Rubies,  The.  By 

E.  Marlitt 20 

653  Barren  Title,  A.  T.  W.  Speight  10 

654  “Us.”  An  Old-fashioned  Story. 

By  Mrs.  Molesworth 10 


12 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Edition. 


665  Open  Door,  The.  By  Mrs.  Oli- 

phant 

666  Golden  Flood,  The.  By  R.  E. 

Francillon  and  Wm.  Senior. . 

657  Christmas  Angel.  By  B.  L.  Far- 

jeon 

658  History  of  a Week,  The.  By 

Mrs.  L.  B.Walford 

659  Wait  of  the  “ Cynthia,”  The. 

By  Jules  Verne 

660  Scottish  Chiefs,  The.  By  Miss 

Jane  Porter.  1st  half 

660  Scottish  Chiefs,  The.  By  Miss 

Jane  Porter.  2d  half 

661  Rainbow  Gold.  By  David  Chris- 

tie Murray 

662  Mystery  of  Allan  Grale,  The.  By 

Isabella  Fyvie  Mayo 

663  Handy  Andy.  By  Samuel  Lover 

664  Rory  O’More.  By  Samuel  Lover 

665  Dove  in  the  Eagle’s  Nest,  The. 

By  Charlotte  M.  Yonge 

666  My  Young  Alcides.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Yonge 

667  Golden  Lion  of  Granpere,  The. 

By  Anthony  Trollope 

668  Half-Way.  An  Anglo-French 

Romance 

669  Philosophy  of  Whist,  The.  By 

William  Pole 

670  Rose  and  the  Ring,  The.  By 

W.  M.  Thackeray.  Illustrated 

671  Don  Gesualdo.  By“Ouida.”.. 

672  In  Maremma.  By  ‘‘  Ouida.”  1st 

half 

672  In  Maremma.  By  “ Ouida.”  2d 

half 

673  Story  of  a Sin.  By  Helen  B. 

Mathers 

674  First  Person  Singular.  By  Da- 

vid Christie  Murray 

675  Mrs.  Dymond.  By  Miss  Thacke- 

ray  

676  Child’s  History  of  England,  A. 

By  Charles  Dickens 

677  Griselda.  By  the  author  of  “ A 

Woman’s  Love-Story” 

678  Dorothy’s  Venture.  By  Mary 

Cecil  Hay 

679  Where  Two  Ways  Meet.  By 

Sarah  Doudney 

680  Fast  and  Lobse.  By  Arthur 

Griffiths 

681  Singer’s  Story,  A.  By  May 

I..affan 

682  In  the  Middle  Wateh.  By  W. 

(Mark  RusscJl 

68fl  Bachelor  Vicar  of  Newforth, 
The.  liy  Mrs.  .T.  T larcourt-Roe 

684  Last  Days  at  Apswich 

685  England  under  Gla<lKtone.  1880 

—1885.  By  Justin  H.  McCar- 
tliy,  M.P 

686  Strange  (Mise  of  Dr.  J(*kyll  and 

Mr.  Hyde.  By  Robert  Louis 

Stevtuison 

887  Country  (il<uitlenian,  A.  By  Mrs. 
Oliphaut 


688  Man  of  Honor,  A.  By  John 


Strange  Winter.  Illustrated.  10 

689  Heir  Presumptive,  The.  By 

Florence  Marryat 20 

690  Far  From  the  Madding  Crowd. 

By  Thomas  Hardy 20 

691  Valentine  Strange.  By  David 

Christie  Murray 20 

692  Mikado,  The,  and  other  Comic 

Operas.  Written  by  W.  S. 
Gilbert.  Composed  by  Arthur 
Sullivan 20 

693  Felix  Holt,  the  Radical.  By 

George  Eliot 20 

694  John  Maidment.  By  Julian 

Sturgis 20 

695  Hearts:  Queen,  Knave,  and 

Deuce.  By  David  Christie 
Murray 20 

696  Thaddeiis  of  Warsaw.  By  Miss 

Jane  Porter 20 

697  Pretty  Jailer,  The.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  1st  half 20 

697  Pretty  Jailer,  The.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

698  Life’s  Atonement,  A.  By  David 

Christie  Murray 20 

699  Sculptor’s  Daughter,  The.  By 

F.  Du  Boisgobey.  1st  half. . . 20 

699  Sculptor’s  Daughter,  The.  By 

F.  Du  Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

700  Ralph  the  Heir.  By  Anthony 

Trollope.  First  half 20 

700  Ralph  the  Heir.  By  Anthony 

Trollope.  Second  half 20 

701  Woman  in  White,  The.  Wilkie 

Collins.  Illustrated.  1st  half  20 

701  Woman  in  White,  The.  Wilkie 

Collins.  Illustrated.  2d  half  20 

702  Man  and  Wife.  By  Wilkie  Col- 

lins. First  half 20 

702  Man  and  Wife.  By  Wilkie  Col- 

lins. Second  half 20 

703  House  Divided  Against  Itself, 

A.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant 20 

704  Prince  Otto.  By  R.  L.  Steven- 

son   10 

705  Woman  I Loved,  The,  and  the 

Woman  Who  Loved  Me.  By 
Isa  Blagden 10 

706  Crimson  Stain,  A.  By  Annie 

Bradshaw 10 

707  Silas  Marner:  The  Weaver  of 

Raveloe.  By  George  Eliot. . . 10 

708  Ormond.  By  Maria  Edgeworth  20 

709  Zenobia;  or.  The  Fall  of  Pal- 

myra. By  William  Ware. 
First  half 20 

709  Zenobia;  or.  The  Fall  of  Pal- 

myra. By  William  Ware, 
Second  half 10 

710  Greatest  Heiress  in  England, 

The.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant 20 

711  Cardinal  Sin,  A.  By  Hugh  Con- 

way, author  of  ” Called 
Back”  20 

712  For  Maimie’s  Sake.  By  Grant 

Allen 20 


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713  “ Cherry  Ripe.”  By  Helen  B. 

Mathers 20 

714  ’Twixt  Love  and  Duty.  By 

Tighe  Hopkins 20 

715  I Have  Lived  and  Loved.  By 

Mrs.  Forrester 20 

716  Victor  and  Vanquished.  By 

Mary  Cecil  Hay 20 

717  Beau  Tancrede;  or,  the  Mar- 

riage Verdict.  By  Alexander 
Dumas 20 

718  Unfairly  Won.  By  Mrs.  Power 

O’Donoghue 20 

719  Childe  Harold’s  Pilgrimage. 

By  Lord  Byron 10 

720  Paul  Clifford.  By  Sir  E.  Bulwer 

Lytton,  Bart 20 

721  Dolores.  By  Mrs.  Forrester. . . 20 

722  What’s  Mine’s  Mine.  By  George 

Macdonald 20 

723  Mauleverer’s  Millions.  By  T. 

Wemyss  Reid 20 

724  My  Lord  and  My  Lady.  By 

Mrs.  Forrester 20 

725  My  Ten  Years’  Imprisonment. 

By  Silvio  Pellico 10 

726  My  Hero.  By  Mrs.  Forrester. . 20 

727  Fair  Women.  By  Mrs.  Forrester  20 

728  Janet’s  Repentance.  By  George 

Eliot 10 

729  Mignon.  By  Mrs.  Forrester...  20 

730  Autobiography  of  Benjamin 

Franklin,  The 10 

731  Bayou  Bride,  The.  By  Mrs. 

Mary  E.  Bryan 20 

732  From  Olympus  to  Hades.  By 

Mrs.  Forrester 20 

733  Lady  Branksmere.  By  “The 

Duchess” 20 

734  Viva.  By  Mrs.  Forrester 20 

735  Until  the  Day  Breaks.  By 

Emily  Spender 20 

736  Roy  and  Viola.  Mrs.  Forrester  20 

737  Aunt  Rachel.  By  David  Christie 

Murray 10 

738  In  the  Golden  Days.  By  Edna 

Lyall 20 

739  Caged  Lion,  The.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Yonge 20 

740  Rhona.  By  Mrs.  Forrester 20 

741  Heiress  of  Hilldrop,  The;  or, 

The  Romance  of  a Young 
Girl.  By  Charlotte  M.  Braeme, 
author  of  “ Dora  Thorne  ”...  20 

742  Love  and  Life.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Yonge 20 

743  Jack’s  Courtship.  By  W.  Clark 

Russell.  1st  half 20 

743  Jack’s  Courtship.  By  W.  Clark 

Russell.  2d  half 20 

744  Diana  Carew ; or,  For  a Wom- 

an’s Sake.  By  Mrs.  Forrester  20 

745  For  Another’s  Sin ; or,  A Strug- 

gle for  Love.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne  ” 20 

746  Cavalry  Life ; or,  Sketches  and 

Stories  in  Barracks  and  Out. 

By  J.  S,  Winter 20 


Our  Sensation  Novel.  Edited 
by  Justin  H.  McCarthy,  M.P.  10 
Hurrish:  A Study.  By  the 

Hon.  Emily  Lawless..^ 20 

Lord  Vanecourt’s  Daughter.  By 
Mabel  Collins 20 


An  Old  Story  of  My  Farming 
Days.  Fritz  Reuter.  1st  half  20 
An  Old  Story  of  My  Farming 
Days.  Fritz  Reuter.  2d  half  20 
Great  Voyages  and  Great  Navi- 
gators. Jules  Verne.  1st  half  20 
Great  Voyages  and  Great  Navi- 
gators. Jules  Verne.  2d  half  20 
Jackanapes,  and  Other  Stories. 


By  Juliana  Horatio  Ewing. . . 10 
King  Solomon’s  Mines.  By  H. 

Rider  Haggard 20 

How  to  be  Happy  Though  Mar- 
ried. By  a Graduate  in  the 

University  of  Matrimony 20 

Margery  Daw.  A Novel 20 

Strange  Adventures  of  Captain 
Dangerous,  The.  By  George 

Augustus  Sala 20 

Love’s  Martyr,  By  Laurence 

AlmaTadema 10 

“ Good-bye,  Sweetheart  1”  By 

Rhoda  Broughton 20 

In  Shallow  Waters.  By  Annie 

Armitt 20 

Aurelian ; or,  Rome  in  the  Third 
Century.  By  William  Ware.  20 
Will  Weatherhelm.  By  William 

H.  G.  Kingston 20 

Impressions  of  Theophrastus 

Such.  By  George  Eliot 10 

Midshipman,  The,  Marmaduke 
Merry.  Wm.  H.  G. Kingston.  20 
Evil  Genius,  The.  By  Wilkie 

Collins 20 

Not  Wisely,  But  Too  Well.  By 
Rhoda  Broughton 20 


No.  XIH. ; or,  The  Story  of  the 
Lost  Vestal.  Emma  Marshall  10 
Joan.  By  Rhoda  Broughton. . 20 
Red  as  a Rose  is  She.  By  Rhoda 


Broughton 20 

Cometh  Up  as  a Flower.  By 

Rhoda  Broughton 20 

Castle  of  Otranto,  The.  By 

Horace  Walpole 10 

Mental  Struggle,  A.  By  “The 

Duchess  ” 20 

Gascoyne,  the  Sandal-Wood 
Trader.  By  R.  M.  Ballantyne  20 
Mark  of  Cain,  The.  By  Andrew 

Lang 10 

Life  and  Travels  of  Mungo 

Park,  The 10 

Three  Clerks,  The.  By  Anthony 

Trollope 20 

P^re  Goriot.  By  H.  De  Balzac  20 

Voyages  and  Travels  of  Sir 
John  Maundeville,  Kt.,  The. . 10 
Society’s  Verdict.  By  the  au- 
thor of  “ My  Marriage  ” 20 

Doom!  An  Atlantic  Episode. 


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780  Rare  Pale  Margaret.  By  the  au- 

thor of  “ What’s  His  Offence?”  20 

781  Secret  Dispatch,  The.  By  James 


Grant 10 

782  Closed  Door,  The.  By  F.  Du 
Boisgobey.  1st  half 20 

782  Closed  Door,  The.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

783  Chantry  House.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Yonge 20 

784  Two  Miss  Flemings,  The.  By  au- 

thor of  “What’s  His  Offence?”  20 

785  Haunted  Chamber,  The.  By 

“The  Duchess” 10 

786  Ethel  Mildmay’s  Follies.  By 

author  of  “ Petite’s  Romance  ” 20 

787  Court  Royal.  A Story  of  Cross 

Currents.  By  S.  Baring-Gould  20 

788  Absentee,  The.  An  Irish  Story. 

By  Maria  Edgeworth 20 

789  Through  the  Looking-Glass, 

and  What  Alice  Found  There. 

By  Lewis  Carroll.  With  fifty 
illustrations  by  John  Tenniel.  20 


790  Chaplet  of  Pearls,  The ; or,  The 
White  and  Black  Ribaumonr. 
Charlotte  BI.  Yonge.  1st  half  20 

790  Chaplet  of  Pearls,  The ; or,  The 

White  and  Black  Ribaumont. 
Charlotte  M.  Yonge.  2d  half  20 

791  Mayor  of  Casterbridge,  The.  By 


Thomas  Hardy 20 

792  Set  in  Diamonds.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne  ” 20 

793  Vivian  Grey.  By  the  Rt.  Hon. 

Benjamin  Disraeli,  Earl  of 

Beaconsfield.  First  half 20 

793  Vivian  Grey.  By  the  Rt.  Hon. 
Benjamin  Disraeli,  Earl  of 
Beaconsfield.  Second  half. . . 20 


794  Beaton’s  Bargain.  By  Mrs.  Al- 


exander  20 

795  Sam’s  Sweetheart.  By  Helen 

B.  Blathers 20 

796  In  a Grass  Country.  By  Mrs. 

H.  Lovett  Cameron 20 

797  Look  Before  You  Leap.  By 

Mrs.  Alexander 20 

798  Fashion  of  this  World,  The.  By 

Helen  B.  Mathers 10 

799  My  Lady  Green  Sleeves.  By 

Helen  B.  Mathers 20 


800  Hopes  and  Fears;  or.  Scenes 
from  the  Life  of  a Spinster. 
Charlotte  M.  Yonge.  1st  half  20 

800  Hopes  and  Fears;  or,  Scenes 

from  the  Tdfe  of  a Spinster. 
Charlotte  M.  Yonge.  2d  half  20 

801  She  Stoops  to  Conquer,  and 

The  Good-Natured  Man.  liy 


Oliver  Goldsmith 10 

802  Stern  Chase,  A.  By  Mrs.Cashel- 

Hoey 20 

803  Major  f'rank.  By  A.  L.  G.  Bos- 

boom-Toussaint 20 

804  Living  or  Dead.  By  Hugh  Con- 

way, author  of  “Called  Back  ” 20 


Freres,  The.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 
ander. 1st  half 20 

Freres,  The.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 
ander. 2d  half 20 

Her  Dearest  Foe.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 
ander. First  half 20 

Her  Dearest  Foe.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 
ander. Second  half 20 

If  Love  Be  Love.  D.  Cecil  Gibbs  20 
King  Arthur.  Not  a Love  Story. 

By  Miss  Mulock 20 

Witness  My  Hand.  By  the  au- 
thor of  Lady  Gwendolen’s 

Tryst  ” 10 

Secret  of  Her  Life,  The.  By  Ed- 
ward Jenkins 20 

Head  Station,  The.  By  Mrs. 

Campbell-Praed 20 

No  Saint.  By  Adeline  Sergeant  20 
Army  Society.  Life  in  a Garri- 
son 'town.  By  John  Strange 

Winter 10 

Heritage  of  Langdale,  The.  By 

BIrs.  Alexander 20 

Ralph  Wilton’s  Weird.  By  Mrs. 

Alexander 10 

Rogues  and  Vagabonds.  By 
George  R.  Sims,  author  of 

“’Ostler  Joe” 20 

Stabbed  in  the  Dark.  By  BIrs. 

E.  Lynn  Linton 10 

Pluck.  By  John  Strange  WTnter  10 
Fallen  Idol,  A.  By  F.  Anstey. . . 20 
Doris’s  Fortune.  By  Florence 

Warden 20 

World  Between  Them,  The.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 

of  “Dora  Thorne.” 20 

Passion  Flower,  A.  A Novel...  20 
Heir  of  the  Ages,  The.  By  James 

Payn 20 

Her  Own  Doing.  W.  E.  Norris  10 
Master  Passion,  The.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat 20 

Cynic  Fortune.  By  D.  Christie 

Murray 20 

Effie  Ogilvie.  By  Mrs.  Oliphant  20 
Prettiest  Woman  in  Warsaw, 
The.  By  Mabel  Collins 20 


Actor’s  Ward,  The.  By  the  au- 
thor of  “ A Fatal  Dower  ”...  20 
Bound  b}’^  a Spell.  Hugh  Con- 
way, author  of  “ Called  Back”  20 
Pomegranate  Seed.  By  the  au- 

fV-ki-ki*  /-kf  TVTico  TTl/im- 


ings,”  etc 20 

Kidnapped.  By  Robert  Louis 

Stevenson 20 

Ticket  No.  “9672.”  By  Jules 

Verne.  First  half 10 

Ticket  No.  “9672.”  By  Jules 

Verne.  Second  half 10 

Ballroom  Repentance,  A.  By 

Mrs.  Annie  Edwards 20 

Vivian  the  Beauty.  By  Mrs. 

Annie  Edwards 20 

Point  of  Honor,  A.  By  Mrs.  An- 
nie Edwards. 20 


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THE  SE ASn)E  LIBRARY — Pocket  Editioit. 


15 


837  Vagabond  Heroine,  A.  By  Mrs. 

Annie  Edwards 10 

838  Ought  We  to  Visit  Her?  By 

Mrs.  Annie  Edwards 20 

839  Leah : A Woman  of  Fashion. 

By  Mrs.  Annie  Edwards 20 

840  One  Thing  Needful;  or,  The 

Penalty  of  Fate.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

841  Jet:  Her  Face  or  Her  Fortune? 

By  Mrs.  Annie  Edwards 10 

842  Blue-Stocking,  A.  By  Mrs.  An- 

nie Edwards 10 

843  Archie  Lovell.  By  Mrs.  Annie 

Edwards 20 

844  Susan  Fielding.  By  Mrs.  Annie 

Edwards 20 

845  Philip  Earnscliffe ; or,  The  Mor- 

als of  May  Fair.  By  Mrs. 
Annie  Edwards 20 

846  Sceven  Lawrence.  By  Mrs. 

Annie  Edwards.  1st  half 20 

846  Steven  Lawrence.  By  Mrs. 

Annie  Edwards.  2d  half 20 

847  Bad  to  Beat.  By  Hawley  Smart  10 

848  My  Friend  Jim.  By  W.  E.  Norris  20 
^9  Wicked  Girl,  A.  Mary  Cecil  Hay  20 

850  Playwright’s  Daughter,  A.  By 

Mrs.  Annie  Edwards 10 

851  Cry  of  Blood,  The.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  First  half 20 

851  Cry  of  Blood,  The.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  Second  half 20 

862  Under  Five  Lakes;  or,  The 
Cruise  of  the  “ Destroyer.” 

By  M.  Quad 20 

853  True  Magdalen,  A.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

864  Woman’s  Error,  A.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

865  Dynamiter,  The.  By  Robert 

Louis  Stevenson  and  Fanny 
Van  de  Grift  Stevenson 20 

866  New  Arabian  Nights.  By  Rob- 

ert Louis  Stevenson 20 

857  Kildee;  or.  The  Sphinx  of  the 
Red  House.  By  Mary  E. 
Bryan.  First  half 20 

857  Kildee;  or,  The  Sphinx  of  the 

Red  House.  By  Mary  E. 
Bryan.  Second  half 20 

858  Old  Ma’m’selle’s  Secret.  By  E. 

Marlitt 20 

859  Ottilie : An  Eighteenth  Century 

Idyl,  and  The  Prince  of  the  100 
Soups.  By  Vernon  Lee 20 

860  Her  Lord  and  Master.  By  Flor- 

ence Marryat 20 

861  My  Sister  the  Actress.  By  Flor- 

ence Marryat 20 

862  Ugly  Barrington.  By  “ The 

Duchess.*  10 

863  “My  Own  Child.”  By  Florence 

Marryat 20 

864  “ No  Intentions.”  By  Florence 


Marryat  ^ 


Written  in  Fire.  By  Florence 

Marryat 20 

Miss  Harrington’s  Husband ; or. 
Spiders  of  Society.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat 20 

Girls  of  Feversham,  The.  By 

Florence  Marryat 20 

Petronel.  By  Florence  Marryat  20 
Poison  of  Asps,  The.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat 10 

Out  of  His  Reckoning.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat 10 

Bachelor’s  Blunder,  A.  By  W. 

E.  Norris 20 

With  Cupid’s  Eyes.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat 20 

Harvest  of  Wild  Oats,  A.  By 

Florence  Marryat 20 

House  Party,  A.  By  “ Ouida  ”.  10 
Lady  Valworth’s  Diamonds.  By 

“The  Duchess” 20 

Mignon’s  Secret.  John  Strange 

Winter 10 

Facing  the  Footlights.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat 20 

Little  Tu’penny.  By  S.  Baring- 

Gould 10 

Touchstone  of  Peril,  The.  By 

R.  E.  Forrest 20 

Son  of  His  Father,  The.  By 

Mrs.  Oliphant 20 

Mohawks.  In  Two  Parts,  each  20 
Children  of  Gibeon.  By  Walter 

Besant 20 

Once  Again.  By  Mrs.  Forrester  20 
Voyage  to  the  Cape,  A.  By  W. 

Clark  Russell 20 

Les  Mis6rables.  Victor  Hugo. 

Parti 20 

Les  Mis4irables.  Victor  Hugo. 

Partll 20 

Les  Mis6rables.  Victor  Hugo. 

Part  HI 20 

Paston  Carew,  Millionaire  and 
Miser.  Mrs.  E.  Lynn  Linton  = 20 
Modern  Telemachus,  A.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Yonge 20 

Treasure  Island.  Robert  Louis 

Stevenson 10 

An  Inland  Voyage.  By  Robert 

Louis  Stevenson ^ 10 

Mistletoe  Bough,  The.  Christ- 
mas, 1886.  Edited  by  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

Vera  Nevill;  or.  Poor  Wisdom’s 
Chance.  By  Mrs.  H.  Lovett 

Cameron 20 

That  Winter  Night;  or.  Love’s 
Victory.  Robert  Buchanan. . 10 
Love’s  Conflict.  By  Florence 

Marryat.  First  half 20 

Love’s  Conflict.  By  Florence 

Marryat.  Second  half 20 

Doctor  Cupid.  By  Rhoda 

Broughton 2C 

Star  and  a Heart,  A.  By  Flor- 
ence Marryat • . 10 

Guilty  River,  The.  By  Wilkie 
CoUins 29 


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886 

887 

888 

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890 

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893 

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895 

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16 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Edition. 


897  Anpre.  By  Florence  Marryat. . . 2C 

898  Bulldog  and  Butterfly,  and  Julia 

and  Her  Romeo,  by  David 
Christie  Murray,  and  Romeo 
and  Juliet,  by  William  Black.  20 


809  Little  Stepson,  A.  By  Florence 
Marryat 10 

900  Woman’s  Wit,  By.  By  Mrs.  Al- 

exander   20 

901  Lucky  Disappointment,  A.  By 

Florence  Marryat 10 

902  Poor  Gentleman,  A.  By  Mrs. 

Oliphant 20 

903  Phyllida.  By  Florence  Marryat  20 

904  Holy  Rose,  The.  By  Walter  Be- 

sant 10 

905  Fair-Haired  Alda,  The.  By  Flor- 

ence Marry  at 20 

906  World  Went  Very  Well  Then, 

The.  By  Walter  Besant 20 

907  Bright  Star  of  Life,  The.  By 

B.  L.  Far  jeon 20 

908  Willful  Young  Woman,  A 20 

909  Nine  of  Hearts,  The.  By  B.  L. 

Farjeon 20 

910  She:  A History  of  Adventure. 

By  H.  Rider  Haggard 20 

911  Golden  Bells:  A Peal  in  Seven 

Changes.  By  R.  E.  Francillon  20 

912  Pure  Gold,  By  Mrs.  H.  Lovett 

Cameron.  Two  Parts,  each  20 

913  Silent  Shore,  The.  By  John 

Bloundelle- Burton 20 

914  Joan  Wentworth.  By  Katha- 

rine S.  Macquoid 20 

015  That  Other  Person.  By  Mrs. 
Alfred  Hunt.  Two  Parts,  each  20 

916  Golden  Hope,  The.  By  W.  Clark 

Russell.  , 20 

917  Case  of  Reuben  Malachi,  The. 

By  H.  Sutherland  SCd wards..  10 

918  Red  Band,  The.  By  F.  Du  Bois- 

gobey.  First  half 20 

918  Red  Band,  The.  By  F.  Du  Bois- 

gobey.  Second  half 20 

919  Locksley  Hall  Sixty  Years  Af- 

ter, etc.  By  Alfred,  Lord 
Tennyson,  P.L.,  D.C.L 10 

920  Child  of  the  Revolution,  A.  By 

the  author  of  “ Mademoiselle 
Mori  ” 20 

921  Late  Miss  Hollingford,  The. 

By  Rosa  Mulholland 10 

922  Marjorie.  By  Charlotte  M. 

Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 

Thorne.”  20 

287  At  War  With  Herself.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Doni  Thorne” 10 

923  At  War  With  Herself.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme.  (T^argo  type 
edition) 20 

924  ’Twixt  Smile  and  Tear.  Char- 

lothi  M.  Braerrie,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 


925  The  Outsider.  Hawley  Smart.  20 

926  SpnnghavoR.  By  R,  D.  Black- 

more.  Ist  and  2d  half,  each.  20 


927  Sweet  Cymbeline.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 

“Dora  Thorne” 20 

294  Hilda;  or.  The  False  Vow.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme 10 

928  Hilda;  or.  The  False  Vow.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “Dora  Thorne.”  (Large 
type  edition) 20 

929  The  Belle  of  Lynn;  or.  The 

Miller’s  Daughter.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora Thorne” 20 

930  Uncle  Max.  By  Rosa  Nouchette 

Carey.  In  Two  Parts,  each..  20 

931  Lady  Diana’s  Pride.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

932  Queenie’s  Whim.  Rosa  Nou- 

chette Carey.  Two  Parts, each  20 

933  A Hidden  Terror.  Mary  Albert  20 

934  Wooed  and  Married.  Rosa  Nou- 

chette Carey.  2 parts,  each. , 20 

935  Borderland.  Jessie  Fothergill.  20 

936  Nellie’s  Memories.  Rosa  Nou- 

chette Carey.  Two  Parts,each  20 

937  Cashel  Byron’s  Profession.  By 

George  Bernard  Shaw 20 

938  Cranford.  By  Mrs.  Gaskell 20 

939  Why  Not?  Florence  Marryat..  20 

940  The  Merry  Men,  and  Other  Tales 

and  Fables.  By  Robert  Louis 
Stevenson 20 

941  Jess.  By  H.  Rider  Haggard. ..  20 

942  Cash  on  Delivery.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey 20 

943  Weavers  and  Weft;  or,  “ Love 

that  Hath  Us  in  His  Net.”  By 
Miss  M.  E.  Braddon 20 

944  The  Professor.  By  Charlotte 

Bronte 20 

945  The  Trumpet-Major.  Thomas 

Hardy 20 

946  The  Dead  Secret.  By  Wilkie 

Collins 20 

947  Publicans  and  Sinners;  or,  Lu- 

cius Davoren.  By  Miss  M.  E. 
Braddon.  First  half 20 

947  Publicans  and  Sinners;  or,  Lu- 

cius Davoren.  By  Miss  M.  E. 

Braddon.  Second  half 20 

293  The  Shadow  of  a Sin.  By  Char- 
lotte M.  Braeme,  aiuthor  of 
“Dora  Thorne” 10 

948  The  Shadow  of  a Sin.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne.”  (Large  type 
edition) 20 

949  Claribel’s  Love  Story;  or. 

Love’s  Hidden  Depths.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 

of  “Dora  Tliorne” 20 

25  Mrs.  Geoffrey.  By  “ The  Duch- 
ess.” (Large  type  edition)...  20 

950  Mrs.  GeolTrey.  “The Duchess”  10 
459  Woman’s  Temptation,  A.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “Dora  Thorne.”  (Large 
type  edition) 20 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Edition. 


17 


951  Woman’s  Temptation,  A.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 

296  Woman’s  War,  A.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  **  t)ora 
Thorne  ” 

952  Woman’s  War,  A.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne.”  (Large  type  edition) 

297  Hilary’s  Folly;  or.  Her  Mar- 

riage Vow.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  ” Dora 
Thorne  ” 

953  Hilary’s  Folly;  or,  Her  Mar- 

riage Vow.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne.”  (Large  type  edition) 

954  A Girl’s  Heart.  By  the  author 

of  ” Nobody’s  Darling  ” 

288  From  Gloom  to  Sunlight;  or. 
From  Out  the  Gloom.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 

955  From  Gloom  to  Sunlight;  or. 

From  Out  the  Gloom.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “Dora  Thorne.”  (Large 
type  edition) 

956  Her  Johnnie.  By  Violet  Whyte 

957  The  Woodlanders,  By  Thomas 

Hardy 

958  A Haunted  Life;  or,  Her  Terri- 

ble Sin.  Charlotte  M.  Braeme, 
author  of  “ Dora  Thorne  ”... 

959  Dawn.  By  H.  Rider  Haggard. 

960  Elizabeth’s  Fortune.  By  Bertha 

Thomas 

961  Wee  Wifie.  By  Rosa  Nouchette 

Carey 

962  Sabina  Zembra.  By  William 

Black.  First  half 

962  Sabina  Zembra.  By  William 

Black.  Second  half 

963  Worth  Winning.  By  Mrs.  H. 

Lovett  Cameron 

964  A Struggle  for  the  Right;  or, 

Tracking  the  Truth 

965  Periwinkle.  By  Arnold  Gray.. 

966  He,  by  the  author  of  “King 

Solomon’s  Wives”;  and  A 
Siege  Baby  and  Childhood’s 

Memories,  by  J.  S.  Winter 

287  Repented  at  Leisure.  By  Char- 
lotte M,  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne.”  (Large  type 
edition) 

967  Repented  at  Leisure.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora  Thorne ” 

968  Blossom  and  Fruit;  or,  Ma- 

dame’s  Ward.  By  the  author 

of  “ Wedded  Hands  ” 

989  The  Mystery  of  Colde  Fell  • or. 
Not  Proven.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “ Doj*a 
Thorne  ” 


970  King  Solomon’s  Wives;  or,  The 

Phantom  Mines.  By  Hyder 
Ragged.  (Illustrated).. 20 

971  Garrison  Gossip:  Gathered  in 

Blankhampton.  By  John 
Strange  Winter 20 

972  Gold  Elsie.  By  E.  Marlitt 20 

973  The  Squire’s  Darling.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora Thorne” 20 

974  Strathmore;  or.  Wrought  by 

His  Own  Hand.  By  “ Ouida.” 
First  half 20 

974  Strathmore;  or.  Wrought  by 

His  Own  Hand.  By  “ Ouida.” 
Second  half 20 

975  A Dark  Marriage  Morn.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “Dora  Thorne” 20 

976  Robur  the  Conqueror;  or,  A 

Trip  Round  the  World  in  a 
FI .ying  Machine.  Jules  Verne  20 

977  The'Haunted  Hotel.  By  Wilkie 

Collins 20 

978  Her  Second  Love.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

979  The  Count’s  Secret.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau.  Parti 20 

979  The  Count’s  Secret.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau.  Part  II 20 

980  To  Call  Her  Mine.  By  Walter 

Besant 20 

981  Granville  de  Vigne  ; or,  Held  in 

Bondage.  By  “Ouida.”  1st 
half 20 

981  Granville  de  Vigne;  or.  Held  in 

Bondage.  By  “Ouida.”  2d 
half 20 

982  The  Duke’s  Secret.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 

“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

-983  Uarda.  A Romance  of  Ancient 

Egypt.  By  George  Ebers 20 

984  Her  Own  Sister.  By  E.  S. 

Williamson 20 

985  On  Her  Wedding  Morn,  and 

The  Mystery  of  the  Holly- 
Tree.  Charlotte  M.  Braeme, 
author  of  “ Dora  Thorne  ”.. . . 20 

986  The  Great  Hesper.  By  Prank 

Barrett 20 


987  Brenda  Yorke,  and  Upon  the 

Waters.  By  Mary  Cecil  Hay.  20 

988  The  Shattered  Idol,  and  Letty 

Leigh.  Charlotte  M.  Braeme, 
author  of  “ Dora  Thorne  ”...  20 

989  Allan  Quatermain.  By  H.  Rider 

Haggard 20 

990  The  Earl’s  Error,  and  Arnold’s 

Promise.  By  Charlotte  M. 
Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne” 20 

991  Mr.  Midshipman  Easy.  By  Cap- 

tain Marry  at....  20 

992  Marrying  and  Giving  in  Mar- 

riage. By  Mrs.  Molesworth...  20 

993  Fighting  the  Air.  By  Florence 

Marryat 20 


10 

10 

i 20 

10 

20 

20 

10 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

20 

10 

20 


18 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Edition, 


994  A Penniless  Orphan.  By  W. 

Heimburg 20 

995  An  Unnatural  Bondage,  and 

That  Beautiful  Lady.  By 
Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “Dora  Thorne” 20 

QQA  Trtfllin.  Dv  “ Oiii/ln.  ” 1ch  Vinlf  9.0 


996  Idalia.  By  “Ouida.”  2d  half.  20 

997  Forging  the  Fetters,  and  The 

Australian  Aunt.  By  Mrs. 
Alexander 20 

998  Open,  Sesame!  By  Florence 

Marry  at 20 

999  The  Second  Wife.  E.  Marlitt.  20 
1000  Puck.  By  “ Ouida.”  1st  half  20 

1000  Puck.  By  “ Ouida.”  2d  half.  20 

1001  Lady  Adelaide’s  Oath;  or,  The 

Castle’s  Heir.  By  Mrs.  Henry 


Wood 20 

1002  Marriage  at  a Venture.  By 

Emile  Gaboriau 20 

1003  Chandos.  By  “ Ouida.”  1st 

half 20 

1003  Chandos.  By  “ Ouida.”  2d 

half 20 

1004  Mad  Dumaresq.  By  Florence 

Marry  at 20 

1005  99  Dark  Street.  F.W.  Robinson  20 

1006  His  Wife’s  Judgment.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

1007  Miss  Gascoigne.  By  Mrs.  J. 

H.  Riddell 20 

1008  A Thorn  in  Her  Heart.  By 

Charlotte  M.  Braeme,  author 
of  “Dora  Thorne” 20 

1009  In  an  Evil  Hour,  and  Other 

Stories.  By  “ The  Duchess  ” 20 

1010  Golden  Gates.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne  ” 20 

1011  Texar’s  Vengeance;  or,  North 

Versus  South.  Jules  Verne. 
Part  1 20 

1011  Texar’s  Vengeance ; or.  North 

Versus  South.  By  Jules  Verne 
Partll 20 

1012  A Nameless  Sin.  By  Charlotte 

M.  Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 
Thorne  ” 20 


1013  The  Confessions  of  Gerald 

Estcourt.  Florence  Marry  at.  20 

1014  A Mad  Love.  By  Charlotte  M. 

Braeme,  author  of  “ Dora 


Thorne” 20 

1015  A Thousand  Francs  Reward. 

By  Emile  Gaboriau 20 

1016  A Modern  Circe.  By  “ The 

Duchess” 20 


1017  Tricotrin.  TheStory  of  a Waif 
and  Stray.  “Ouida.”  Isthalf  20 

1017  Tricotrin.  TheStory  of  a Waif 

and  Stray.  “ Ouida.”  2d  half  20 

1018  Two  Marriages.  By  Miss  Mu- 


lock  20 

1019  Major  and  Minor.  By  W.  E. 

Norris.  Ist  half 20 

1019  Major  and  Minor.  By  W.  E. 
Norris.  2d  half 20 


1020  Michael  Strogoff;  or,  The  Cou- 

rier of  tlie  Czar.  Jules  Verne  20 

1021  Tlie  Hair  to  Asliley,  and  Tlie 

Red -Court  Farm.  By  Mrs. 
Henry  Wood 20 

1022  Driven  to  Bay.  By  Florence 

Marryat 20 

1023  Next  of  Kin— Wanted.  By  M. 

Betham-Ed wards 20 

1024  Under  the  Storm ; or.  Stead- 

fast’s Charge.  By  Charlotte 
M.  Yonge 20 

1025  Daisy’s  Dilemma.  By  Mrs.  H. 

Lovett  Cameron 20 

1026  A Dark  Inheritance.  By  Mary 

Cecil  Hay 20 

1027  A Life’s  Secret.  By  Mrs.  Henry 

Wood 20 

1028  A Wasted  Love.  A Novel 20 

1029  Armadale.  By  Wilkie  Collins. 

1st  half 20 

1029  Armadale.  By  Wilkie  Collins. 

2d  half 20 

1030  The  Mistress  of  Ibichstein.  By 

Fr.  Henkel 20 

1031  Irene’s  Vow.  By  Charlotte  M. 

Braeme,  author  of  “Dora 
Thorne” 20 

1032  Mignon’s  Husband.  By  John 

Strange  Winter 20 

1033  Esther:  A Story  for  Girls.  By 

Rosa  Nouchette  Carey 20 

1034  The  Silence  of  Dean  Maitland. 

By  Maxwell  Gray 20 

1035  The  Duchess.  By  “ The  Duch- 

ess”  20 

1036  Like  and  Unlike.  By  Miss  M. 

E.  Braddon 20 

1037  Scheherazade:  A London 

Night’s  Entertainment.  By 
Florence  Warden 20 

1038  Mistress  and  Maid.  By  Miss 

Mulock 20 

1039  Driver  Dallas.  By  John  Strange 

Winter 10 

1040  Clarissa’s  Ordeal.  By  the  au- 

thor of  “A  Great  Mistake.” 
First  half 20 

1040  Clarissa’s  Ordeal.  By  the  au- 

thor of  “ A Great  Mistake.” 
Second  half 20 

1041  Home  Again.  By  George  Mac- 

donald  20 

1042  Lady  Grace.  Mrs.  Henry  Wood  20 

1043  Faust.  By  Goethe 20 

1044  The  Frozen  Pirate.  By  W. 

Clark  Russell 20 

1045  The  13th  Hussars.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau 20 

1046  Jessie.  By  the  author  of  “ Ad- 

die’s  Husband  ” 20 

1047  Marvel.  By  “The  Duchess”..  20 
1043  The  Wreck  of  the  “Grosvenor.” 

By  W.  Clark  Russell 20 

1049  A Tale  of  Three  Ij'ons,  and  On 
Going  Back.  H.  Rider  Haggard  20 

1050  The  Tour  of  the  World  in  80 

Days.  By  Jules  Verne 20 


THE  SEASIDE  LIBRARY— Pocket  Edition. 


19 


?.051  The  Misadventures  of  John 
Nicholson.  By  Robert  Louis 
Stevenson 10 

1052  Signa’s  Sweetheart.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“ Dora  Thorne  ” 20 

1053  Young  Mrs.  Jardine.  By  Miss 

Mulock 20 

1054  Mona’s  Choice.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  20 

1055  Katharine  Regina.  By  Walter 

Besant 20 

1056  The  Bride  of  the  Nile.  By 

George  Ebers.  1st  half 20 

1056  The  Bride  of  the  Nile.  By 

George  Ebers.  2d  half 20 

1057  A Life  Interest.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  20 

1058  Masaniello;  or,  The  Fisherman 

of  Naples.  Alexander  Dumas  20 

1059  Confessions  of  an  English  Opi- 

um-Eater, and  The  English 
Mail-Coach.  By  Thomas  De 
Quincey 20 

1060  The  Lady  of  the  Lake.  By  Sir 

Walter  Scott,  Bart 20 

1061  A Queer  Race : The  Story  of  a 

Strange  People.  By  William 
Westall  . 20 

1062  The  Deersiayer;  or,  The  First 

War-Path.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper.  First  half 20 

1062  The  Deersiayer;  or,  The  First 

War-Path.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper.  Second  half 20 

1063  Kenilworth.  By  Sir  Walter 

Scott,  Bart.  First  half 20 

1063  Kenilworth.  By  Sir  Walter 

Scott,  Bart.  Second  half 20 

1064  Only  the  Governess.  By  Rosa 

Nouchette  Carey 20 

1065  Herr  Paulus:  His  Rise,  His 

Greatness,  and  His  Fall.  By 
Walter  Besant 20 

1066  My  Husband  and  I.  By  Count 

Lyof  Tolstoi 10 

1067  Saint  Michael.  By  E.  Werner. 

First  half 20 

1067  Saint  Michael.  By  E.  Werner. 

Second  half 20 

1068  Vendetta!  or.  The  Story  of  One 

Forgotten.  By  Marie  Corelli.  20 

1069  Polikouchka.  By  Count  Lyof 

Tolstoi 10 


1070  A Life’s  Mistake.  By  Mrs.  H. 

Lovett  Cameron 20 

1071  The  Death  of  Ivan  Iliitch.  By 

Count  Lyof  Tolstoi 10 

1072  Only  a Coral  Girl.  By  Gertrude 

Forde 20 

1073  Two  Generations.  By  Count 

Lyof  Tolstoi 10 

1074  Stormy  Waters.  By  Robert 

Buchanan 20 

1075  The  Mystery  of  a Hansom  Cab. 

By  Fergus  W.  Hume 20 

1076  The  Mystery  of  an  Omnibus. 

By  F.  Du  Boisgobey 20 

1077  The  Nun’s  Curse.  By  Mrs.  J. 

H.  Riddell 20 

1078  The  Slaves  of  Paris.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau.  First  half 20 

1078  The  Slaves  of  Paris.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau.  Second  half 20 

1079  Beautiful  Jim:  of  the  Blank- 

shire  Regiment.  By  John 
Strange  Winter 20 

1080  Bertha’s  Secret.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  1st  half 20 

1080  Bertha’s  Secret.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

1081  Too  Curious.  By  Edward  J. 

Goodman 20 

1082  The  Severed  Hand.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  1st  half 20 

1082  The  Severed  Hand.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

1083  The  Little  Old  Man  of  the  Bat- 

ignolles.  By  Emile  Gaboriau  10 

1084  Chris.  By  W.  E.  Norris 20 

1085  The  Matapan  Affair.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  1st  half 20 

1085  The  Blatapan  Affair.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

1086  Nora.  By  Carl  Detlef 20 

1087  A Woman’s  Face;  or,  A Lake- 

_ land  Mystery.  By  F.  Warden  20 

1088  The  Old  Age  of  Monsieur  Le- 

coq.  By  F.  Du  Boisgobey.  1st 
half 20 

1088  The  Old  Age  ^ Monsieur  Le- 

coq.  By  F.  Du  Boisgobey.  2d 
half 20 

1089  Home  Sounds.  By  E.  Werner  20 

1090  The  Cossacks.  By  Count  Lyof 

Tolstoi 20 

1091  A Modern  Cinderella.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 10 


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669  Pole  on  Whist 
432  THE  WITCH’8  HEAD.  By 

H.  Rider  Hapr^rard 

1043  TheWreckof  the“Grosvenor.” 

By  W.  Clark  Russell 

1049  A Tale  of  Three  liions,  and  On 
Goin^  Back.  H.  Rider  Haggard  20 

1050  The  Tour  of  the  World  in  80 


Days.  By  Jules  Verne 20 

1051  The  Misadventures  of  John 

Nicholson.  By  Robert  Louis 
Stevenson 10 

1052  Signa’s  Sweetheart.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme,  author  of 
“Dora  Thorne” 20 

1053  Young  Mrs.  Jardine.  By  Miss 

Mulock 20 

1054  Mona’s  Choice.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  20 

1055  Katharine  Regina.  By  Walter 

Besant 20 

1056  The  Bride  of  the  Nile.  By 

George  Ebers.  1st  half 20 

1056  The  Bride  of  the  Nile.  By 

George  Ebers.  2d  half 20 

1057  A Life  Interest.  By  Mrs.  Alex- 

ander  .' 20 

1058  Masaniello ; or,  The  Fisherman 

of  Naples.  Alexander  Dumas  20 


Quincey 20 

1060  The  Lady  of  the  Lake.  By  Sir 

Walter  Scott,  Bart 20 

1061  A Queer  Race : The  Story  of  a 

Strange  People.  By  William 
Westall 20 

1062  The  Deerslayer;  or,  The  First 

War-Path.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper.  First  half 20 

1062  The  Deerslayer;  or,  The  First 

War-Path.  By  J.  Fenimore 
Cooper.  Second  half 20 

1063  Kenilworth.  By  Sir  Walter 

Scott,  Bart.  First  half 20 

1063  Kenilworth.  By  Sir  Walter 

Scott,  Bart.  Second  half 20 

1064  Only  the  Governess.  By  Rosa 

Nouchette  Carey 20 

1065  Herr  Paulus:  His  Rise,  His 

Greatness,  and  His  Fall.  By 

Walter  Besant 20 

1006  My  HusV>and  and  I.  By  Count 

Ijyof  Tolstoi 10 

1067  Saint  Michael.  By  E.  Werner. 

First  half 20 

1067  Saint  Michael.  By  E.  Werner. 

Second  half 20 


1068  Vendetta  lor.  The  Story  of  One 
Forgotten.  By  Marie  Corelli.  20 

1069  Polikouchka.  By  Count  Lyof 


Tolstoi 10 

1070  A Life’s  Mistake.  By  Mrs.  H. 

Lovett  Cameron^ 20 

1071  The  Death  of  Ivan  Iliitch.  By 

Count  Lyof  Tolstoi 10 

1072  Only  a Coral  Girl.  By  Gertrude 

Forde 20 

1073  Two  Generations.  By  Count 

Lyof  Tolstoi 10 

1074  Stormy  Waters.  By  Robert 

Buchanan 20 

1075  The  Mystery  of  a Hansom  Cab. 

By  Fergus  W.  Hume 20 

1076  The  Mystery  of  an  Omnibus. 

By  F.  Du  Boisgobey 20 

1077  The  Nun’s  Curse.  By  Mrs.  J. 

H.  Riddell 20 

1078  The  Slaves  of  Paris.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau.  First  half 20 

1078  The  Slaves  of  Paris.  By  Emile 

Gaboriau.  Second  half 20 

1079  Beautiful  Jim:  of  the  Blank- 

shire  Regiment.  By  John 
Strange  Winter 20 

1080  Bertha’s  Secret.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  1st  half 20 

1080  Bertha’s  Secret.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

1081  Too  Curious.  By  Edward  J. 

Goodman 20 

1082  The  Severed  Hand.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  1st  half 20 

1082  The  Severed  Hand.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

1083  The  Little  Old  Man  of  the  Bat- 

igndlles.  By  Emile  Gaboriau  10 

1084  Chris.  By  W.  E.  Norris 20 

1085  The  Matapan  Affair.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  1st  half 20 

1085  The  Matapan  Affair.  By  F.  Du 

Boisgobey.  2d  half 20 

1086  Nora.  By  Carl  Detlef 20 

1087  A Woman’s  Face;  or,  A Lake- 

land Mystery.  By  F.  Warden  20 

1088  The  Old  Age  of  Monsieur  Le- 

coq.  By  F.  Du  Boisgobey.  1st 
half 20 

1088  The  Old  Age  of  Monsieur  Le- 

coq.  By  F.  Du  Boisgobey.  2d 
half 20 

1089  Home  Sounds.  By  E.  Werner  20 

1090  The  Cossacks.  By  Count  Lyof 

Tolstoi 20 

1091  A Modern  Cinderella.  By  Char- 

lotte M.  Braeme 10 


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